Nuclear fusion
2 marks · NormalState what is meant by nuclear fusion and name the main element involved in fusion in stars.
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Nuclear fusion is the process where two light nuclei join to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. The main element involved in the fusion in stars is hydrogen.
Also accept: proton as component of hydrogen
Common mistakes: naming helium instead of hydrogen
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Correctly states nuclear fusion involves two light nuclei joining to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
B2 · 1 mark · Identifies hydrogen as the main element involved in fusion in stars.
Worked solution
Nuclear fusion is the process where two light nuclei join together to make a single heavier nucleus, releasing energy. The main element involved in stellar fusion is hydrogen.