14.4 Nuclear Reactions

Nuclear vs. Chemical Reactions A chemical reaction involves the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, which have to do with valence electrons. A nuclear reaction involves altering the number of protons and/or neutrons in an atom.

Types of Nuclear Reactions: Fission Nuclear fission: splitting the nucleus of an atom Ping pong ball example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjqIJW_Qr3c

Types of Nuclear Reactions: Fusion Nuclear fusion: the process of combining the nuclei of lighter atoms to make heavier atoms

Example of Fusion Nuclear fusion occurs in the Sun and the resulting energy released provides Earth with heat and light.