Physics Topic Practice

Nuclear Fusion in Stars | GCSE Physics Practice

Nuclear fusion is the joining of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

Why is nuclear fusion so difficult to achieve on Earth?

What is Nuclear Fusion in Stars | Practice?

"A nuclear reaction in which atomic nuclei of low atomic number fuse to form a heavier nucleus with the release of energy."

Question 1

Which type of radiation is stopped by a single sheet of paper?

Question 2

Niels Bohr changed the atomic model by suggesting that electrons ____.

Question 3

Which type of radiation is an electromagnetic wave?

Question 4

What is the definition of half-life?

Fusing Atoms

Two light nuclei (e.g. Hydrogen) fuse to form Helium.

Some of the mass is converted into energy (E=mc²).

Requires extremely high temperature and pressure to overcome electrostatic repulsion.

This is the process that powers stars like our Sun.

Exam Tip

Comparison Fact: Fusion releases MORE energy per gram of fuel than fission and produces no long-lived radioactive waste.

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