Question

in the process of nuclear fusion, large amounts of energy, at temperatures of approximately 120 million kelvin, are required to join two nuclei into a single heavier nucleus. why does the process of fusion require so much energy in order to take place? a to allow the electrons to enter the nucleus b to remove the electrons from the electron clouds c to cause the two nuclei to slow down and find each other d to overcome the electrostatic forces between opposing nuclei

Explanation:

Step1: Understand nuclear fusion basics

Nuclear fusion involves joining nuclei. Nuclei are positively - charged.

Step2: Analyze electrostatic forces

Positively - charged nuclei repel each other due to electrostatic forces.

Step3: Determine energy requirement

High energy is needed to overcome these repulsive electrostatic forces for fusion to occur.

Answer:

D. to overcome the electrostatic forces between opposing nuclei