A huge amount of energy is released when a heavy nucleus splits up into two smaller nuclei ( nuclear fission) or when two light nuclei come together to form a heavier nucleus ( nuclear fusion). The energy released becomes a very valuable source of energy nowadays as the non-renewable fossil fuels are running out.

nuclear fissionWhat makes the nucleus split apart? In this section, you can 
                                      investigate what is actually happening in the nucleus 
                                      during nuclear fission.
mass & energy relationshipHave you heard of Einstein's theory of Relativity? In this section, 
                                      you will see that mass and energy are actually two facets of the 
                                      same thing!
chain reactionsWhen the process of nuclear fission goes on, the neutrons released 
                                      from one nucleus will hit and split other nucleus. This process
                                      results in a chain reaction.
nuclear reactorTo make practical and non-destructive use of nuclear energy, we need 
                                       some suitable "containers" to hold the fuels and stand the high
                                       temperature. They are called nuclear reactors.
nuclear fusionEnergy is also liberated during he union of nuclei. You will learn more about 
                                       the process of nuclear fusion in this section.

 

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