1. 14.4 Nuclear Reactions

2. 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.

3. Types of Nuclear Reactions: Fission
Nuclear fission: splitting the nucleus of an atom
Ping pong ball example:

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

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