Figure 8 shows a helium nucleus - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 5
Figure 8 shows a helium nucleus.
(a) Two of the particles in the helium nucleus are neutrons.
State the name of the other two particles in the helium nucleus.
(b) ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 8 shows a helium nucleus - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
State the name of the other two particles in the helium nucleus.
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Answer
The other two particles in the helium nucleus are protons.
Step 2
Describe the difference between a fusion reaction and a fission reaction.
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Answer
Fusion reactions involve the combination of two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process. This typically occurs under extreme temperatures and pressures, like those found in stars. In contrast, fission reactions involve the splitting of a heavy atomic nucleus into two smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy and additional neutrons. Fission is commonly used in nuclear reactors and can occur spontaneously or be induced by neutron absorption.
Step 3
Nuclear fusion does not happen at low temperatures because of electrostatic repulsion between
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