Where the Energy Comes From

Part of Nuclear Fission & Fusion · Section 4 of 18

Key FactsUnit: Atomic StructureGCSE

In both fission and fusion, the total mass of the products is slightly less than the total mass of the starting nuclei. The missing mass is released as energy. This is why both processes give out such a huge amount of energy.

This key facts covers Where the Energy Comes From within Nuclear Fission & Fusion for GCSE Physics. Revise Nuclear Fission & Fusion in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 25 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 4 of 18 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Practice questions for Nuclear Fission & Fusion

What is nuclear fission?

  • A. The joining of two small nuclei to form one larger nucleus
  • B. The spontaneous emission of an alpha particle from a nucleus
  • C. The splitting of a large nucleus into two smaller nuclei
  • D. The absorption of an electron by a nucleus
1 markfoundation

Explain what is meant by a chain reaction in nuclear fission.

2 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

What is nuclear fission?
The splitting of a large, unstable nucleus into two smaller nuclei, releasing energy and neutrons
What is nuclear fusion?
The joining of two small, light nuclei to form a larger nucleus, releasing energy

Previous

Nuclear Fusion Explained

Next

Nuclear Fission — Key Details

13 questions on Nuclear Fission & Fusion: practise free

Instant marking, adaptive difficulty and spaced-repetition flashcards — all aligned to your exam board.

Start revising free →

PrepWise is a trading name of A3M Quality Solutions Limited, registered in England and Wales, company number 14959172. Registered office: 202 Stroud Road, Gloucester, GL1 5LA. ICO registration ZC267069.