# Explain the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. In your answer, refer to the nuclei involved in each process.

> AQA GCSE Physics (8463) — 4.4.4 Nuclear fission and fusion (Phys only) · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Nuclear fission is the splitting of a large/unstable nucleus into two smaller/more stable nuclei
2. Nuclear fusion is the joining of two small/light nuclei to form a larger/heavier nucleus
3. Both processes release energy
4. Fission produces neutrons (and gamma rays) as products / fission produces two smaller nuclei plus neutrons

## Key terms

- [nuclear fission](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/nuclear-fission)
- [nuclear fusion](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/nuclear-fusion)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Physics (8463)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-the-difference-between-nuclear-fission-2c14088b) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.