A process where the nucleus of an atom changes. This can happen when nuclei collide, split, or combine which releases much energy. It involves the changes in nucleus unlike chemical reaction which only involves electrons.
Two types of nuclear reactions
Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion
Nuclear fission
Occurs when a big atom splits into smaller atoms releasing a lot of energy in the process.
Process of nuclear fission
A neutron hits the nucleus of a large atom
This makes the atom unstable and causes it to break apart into two or smaller atoms
When it splits, also releases energy (can be used in powerplants) and more neutrons (which can hit other atoms and cause a chain reaction)
Nuclear fusion
It occurs when two small atomic nuclei come together to form a larger nucleus releasing a huge amount of energy.
Process of nuclear fusion
Two light nuclei are forced to collide under extremely high temperature and pressure
They combine to form a heavier nucleus like helium
This fusion process releases a tremendous amount of energy much more than nuclear fission
