Question
4x Fission and fusion are alike in many ways. However, one difference is 4x A Fusion forms dangerous nuclear waste that is difficult to dispose whereas fission does not. B Fission is a controllable chain reaction and fusion is not. C Fusion results in a greater product mass whereas fission does not. D Raw materials for fission are cheaper and easy to get.
Answer
4.2
(185 Votes)
Stanley
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
The correct answer is C.
Explanation
## Step 1The problem presents a statement about two atomic processes, namely fission and fusion, and asks us to identify one difference between these two processes. This requires a clear understanding of these processes.## Step 2Fission is a process in which an atom's nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei. This process releases a significant amount of energy, which is harnessed in nuclear power plants and weapons.## Step 3On the other hand, fusion is a process in which two or more smaller atomic nuclei combine to form a larger nucleus. This process also releases a considerable amount of energy, and it is the process that powers the Sun and other stars.## Step 4Option A suggests that fusion produces more dangerous nuclear waste than fission, which contradicts the general critique of the latter's process. Hence, it is incorrect.## Step 5Option B implies that fusion is not controllable, which is not entirely accurate, as fusion can be controlled under experimental conditions in labs.## Step 6Option D states that raw materials for fission are cheaper and easy to get. This is a well-known fact about fission, which typically uses isotopes of uranium or plutonium. However, this doesn't provide a distinct difference between fission and fusion.## Step 7Option C states that fusion results in a greater product mass than fission does not. This is a well-established fact about fusion. In fusion, the total mass of the resulting nucleus is less than the sum of the masses of the original nuclei. This is due to the energy released during the process, which according to the law of conservation of mass, is converted into mass.