Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) · PHYSICS · Section
Nuclear fusion
17 practice questions
Practice questions
1–10 of 17
Question 1
1 mark · Easy
Answer and see the solution →State the main process that provides energy in the core of stars such as the Sun.
Question 2
3 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →Nuclear fusion involves combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.
(a)[2 marks]Name the two isotopes of hydrogen most commonly used in nuclear fusion experiments on Earth.
(b)[1 mark]State one particle (not a nucleus) that is released as a product in these fusion reactions.
Question 3
3 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →The diagram shows the reaction between a deuterium nucleus and a tritium nucleus.
(a)[2 marks]Explain why a very high temperature is needed for fusion to occur between deuterium and tritium nuclei.
(b)[1 mark]State one reason why fusion reactions are difficult to achieve on Earth, besides temperature.
Question 4
1 mark · Easy
Answer and check →Which of the following statements correctly describes nuclear fusion?
- A.Two light nuclei join to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
- B.A heavy nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei, releasing energy.
- C.An unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle to become more stable.
- D.A neutron is absorbed by a nucleus, causing it to become unstable.
Question 5
1 mark · Easy
Answer and see the solution →State the process that powers the Sun and other stars.
Question 6
1 mark · Easy
Answer and check →Which statement best describes why nuclear fusion requires very high temperatures and pressures?
- A.The nuclei must move slowly enough to combine.
- B.The repulsive forces between nuclei must be overcome.
- C.There must be enough gravity for fusion to occur.
- D.Radioactive waste must be produced by fusion.
Question 7
2 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →Describe what happens during nuclear fusion in stars.
Question 8
4 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Nuclear reactions can involve either fission or fusion.
(a)[2 marks]State one similarity and one difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
(b)[2 marks]Explain why nuclear fusion requires much higher temperatures and pressures than fission.
Question 9
2 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →State what is meant by nuclear fusion and name the main element involved in fusion in stars.
Question 10
3 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →The diagram shows a nuclear fusion reaction used in experiments on Earth.
(a)[1 mark]Name the two isotopes of hydrogen that take part in this fusion reaction.
(b)[1 mark]State one product of this reaction.
(c)[1 mark]Is energy absorbed or released in this reaction? Explain why.