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Question 7 of 17 in Nuclear fusion

Nuclear fusion

2 marks · Easy

Describe what happens during nuclear fusion in stars.

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Small nuclei combine to form a larger nucleus, releasing energy.

Also accept: Two light nuclei join to form a heavier nucleus and release energy.; Hydrogen nuclei fuse to make helium, releasing energy.

Common mistakes: Nuclei split to form smaller nuclei (confusing with fission)

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States that small/light nuclei join or fuse to make a larger/heavier nucleus.

B2 · 1 mark · States that energy is released during/after the process.

Worked solution

During nuclear fusion in stars, small nuclei such as hydrogen join together to form a larger nucleus (such as helium), and energy is released in the process.

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