Question

which describes the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion? nuclear fission is the process that produces the radiant energy of stars, and nuclear fusion splits a heavier nucleus into smaller nuclei. nuclear fission produces energy in nuclear power plants, and nuclear fusion produces the energy in the core of earth. nuclear fission produces the energy in the core of earth, and nuclear fusion produces energy in nuclear power plants. nuclear fission splits a heavier nucleus into smaller nuclei, and nuclear fusion is the process that produces the radiant energy of stars.

Explanation:

To determine the correct option, we analyze the definitions of nuclear fission and fusion:

• Nuclear fission: A heavy nucleus splits into smaller nuclei (used in nuclear power plants).
• Nuclear fusion: Lighter nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus (occurs in stars and the Sun, and is the process for stellar energy production).

Now, let's evaluate each option:

1. First option: Incorrectly links fission to stars (stars use fusion) and misdescribes fission.
2. Second option: Incorrectly states fission is in nuclear power and fusion in Earth's core (Earth's core energy is from radioactive decay, not fusion; fusion is in stars).
3. Third option: Incorrectly says fission is in Earth's core (it's not) and fusion in nuclear power (fusion is not used in current nuclear power plants, fission is).
4. Fourth option: Correctly states fission splits a heavier nucleus into smaller nuclei (matches fission) and fusion produces stellar radiant energy (fusion is the process in stars to produce energy).

Answer:

The fourth option (Nuclear fission splits a heavier nucleus into smaller nuclei, and nuclear fusion is the process that produces the radiant energy of stars)