Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) · PHYSICS · Chapter
Fission and Fusion
47 practice questions
Topics covered
Practice questions
21–30 of 47
Question 21
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 22
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 23
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 24
1 mark · Easy
Answer and see the solution →State the process that powers the Sun and other stars.
Question 25
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 26
2 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →Describe what happens during nuclear fusion in stars.
Question 27
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 28
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 29
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.
Question 30
3 marks · Normal
Answer and see the solution →Explain why nuclear fusion reactions are the main source of energy in stars, but not in most power stations on Earth.