Explain nuclear fission. Why is nuclear fission essential for nuclear fusion? [2+1]
WBBSE
Class X
Physical Science
Atomic Nucleus
03 Mark
2026
Nuclear Fission
The process in which a heavy atomic nucleus splits into two or more lighter nuclei, with the release of a large amount of energy and neutrons, is called nuclear fission.
For example:
²³⁵U + ¹n → ¹⁴¹Ba + ⁹²Kr + 3¹n + Energy
Nuclear fusion requires an extremely high temperature to occur. The large amount of heat produced by nuclear fission is used to provide this high temperature and initiate nuclear fusion.
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