- #1
Klupa
- 4
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Why does fission/fusion occur instead of alpha/beta/gamma radiation?
Why do atoms undergo fission/fusion instead of emitting radiation?
In summary, atoms undergo fission or fusion to become stable instead of emitting radiation because fission and fusion are separate processes that occur under different circumstances. While fission is an alternative to alpha/beta/gamma radiation, it only occurs in heavy elements. Fusion, on the other hand, is the result of high-speed collisions between light nuclei and is not a decay process. It is recommended to read the suggested Wikipedia articles for a better understanding of these processes.
- #2
anorlunda
Staff Emeritus
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That is a very unclear question. I don't understand what you are asking.
Try reading these Wikipedia articles first, then post again with a more specific question.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_fission
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_fusion
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay
- #3
Klupa
- 4
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Sorry if it is a bit confusing but my teacher taught us how atoms emit alpha/beta/gamma radiation in order to become stable. In the next lesson he taught us how atoms undergo fission or fusion to become stable. I was just wondering what makes atoms fission/fusion to become stable rather than emit radiation?
- #4
mathman
Science Advisor
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Fission and fusion are two completely different processes.
Fission is an alternative to the decays you mentioned, but only occurs only in certain circumstances involving heavy elements.
Fusion is the result of two light (usually) nuclei undergoing high speed collision. It is not a decay process.
Fission is an alternative to the decays you mentioned, but only occurs only in certain circumstances involving heavy elements.
Fusion is the result of two light (usually) nuclei undergoing high speed collision. It is not a decay process.
- #5
berkeman
Mentor
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Did you read the links that were suggested as good resources for your learning by @anorlunda they should help you a lot.Klupa said:
FAQ: Why do atoms undergo fission/fusion instead of emitting radiation?
What is the difference between fission and fusion?
Fission is the splitting of a large atom into two or more smaller atoms, while fusion is the combining of two smaller atoms to form a larger atom.
Which process is used in nuclear power plants?
Nuclear power plants use fission to produce energy. The nuclei of uranium atoms are split, releasing energy in the form of heat, which is then used to generate electricity.
What is radiation?
Radiation is the emission of energy in the form of particles or waves. It can occur naturally, such as from the sun, or be man-made, such as in nuclear reactions.
How does radiation affect living organisms?
Exposure to high levels of radiation can damage cells and DNA, leading to health issues such as cancer. However, low levels of radiation are constantly present in our environment and are not harmful to most living organisms.
Can fusion be used as a clean energy source?
Fusion has the potential to be a clean energy source, as it produces no greenhouse gases and has minimal radioactive waste. However, scientists are still working on developing the technology to make it a viable energy source on a large scale.