Atomic StructureAQA GCSE Physics 8463

Nuclear Fission and Fusion

Work through the notes, try the practice questions, then take the quiz. The report tells you exactly what to revise next. (2026)

Practice progress

6 MCQs

0 of 6 attempted

Correct

Incorrect

Remaining

1
Fission requires:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Slow neutrons are more easily absorbed by U-235.
2
In fusion, which nuclei combine?
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Light nuclei (hydrogen isotopes) fuse.
3
Control rods in a fission reactor:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Boron/cadmium absorbs neutrons to control the chain reaction.
4
Fusion takes place in:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Sun and stars produce energy by fusion.
5
Why is fusion not yet used commercially?
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
10⁸ K plasma stability is the challenge.
6
Energy released in fission/fusion comes from:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Products have slightly less mass than reactants; the difference is released as energy.

Atomic StructureAQA GCSE Physics 8463

Work through the notes, try the practice questions, then take the quiz. The report tells you exactly what to revise next. (2026)

6 MCQs

0 of 6 attempted

Correct

Incorrect

Remaining

1
Fission requires:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Slow neutrons are more easily absorbed by U-235.
2
In fusion, which nuclei combine?
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Light nuclei (hydrogen isotopes) fuse.
3
Control rods in a fission reactor:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Boron/cadmium absorbs neutrons to control the chain reaction.
4
Fusion takes place in:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Sun and stars produce energy by fusion.
5
Why is fusion not yet used commercially?
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
10⁸ K plasma stability is the challenge.
6
Energy released in fission/fusion comes from:
Answer & explanation
Correct: option B
Products have slightly less mass than reactants; the difference is released as energy.