Question

Nuclear fusion produces
A) Argon
B) Deuterium
C) Helium
D) Krypton

Answer 1

Hint: The nuclei of two atoms of light nature when combined is called nuclear fusion. This process is responsible for the power source of the sun and stars. Sun and stars are the ultimate energy source.

Complete Step by Step Solution:
Let's understand the nuclear fusion reaction in detail. The nuclear fusion reaction happens when the nuclei of the two atoms come close enough so that the nuclear force becomes greater than the electrostatic force which pushes the nuclei apart. Therefore, the formation of a heavier nucleus occurs by the fusion of the two smaller nuclei.

We know that, three isotopes of an atom of hydrogen are, protium (\[{}_1^1H\] ), deuterium (\[{}_1^2H\]) and tritium
(\[{}_1^3H\]). They differ by their mass numbers. The fusion reaction of deuterium and tritium gives helium and a neutron. The fusion reaction is as follows:
\[{}_1^2H + {}_1^3H \to {}_2^4He + {}_0^1n\]

This nuclear fusion reaction results in the production of a huge amount of energy. And this reaction is the cause of the ultimate energy of the Sun.
Hence, option C is right.

Additional Information: There are many advantages of nuclear fusion such as this reaction is clean because of no combustion reaction, so, there is no chance of air pollution. In this reaction, less amount of nuclear waste is generated. So, their disposal will not be a problem.

Note: It is to be noted that, if nuclear fusion is utilised appropriately, the power crisis problem can be solved easily. The benefits are it is clean in nature and the production of minimum nuclear waste exceeds the nuclear fission reaction. Also, for fusion, the easy availability of tritium and deuterium is also an advantage.