Atomic Nuclei
Atomic nuclei are the dense cores at the center of atoms, composed of protons and neutrons. In nuclear fusion, these nuclei combine under extreme pressure and temperature, typically occurring in stars, to form heavier elements. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy, as the mass of the resulting nucleus is slightly less than the sum of its parts, according to Einstein's equation \(E=mc^2\). Fusion powers the sun and holds potential for clean energy on Earth, as it produces little waste and has abundant fuel sources, such as isotopes of hydrogen.
Additional Insights
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Atomic nuclei are the dense cores at the center of atoms, composed of protons and neutrons. Protons are positively charged, while neutrons have no charge. The number of protons defines the element (e.g., hydrogen has one proton, helium has two). The nucleus is responsible for most of an atom's mass and stability. Electrons, which are negatively charged, orbit the nucleus, forming a cloud that defines the atom's overall size. Understanding atomic nuclei is fundamental in fields like chemistry, physics, and nuclear energy, as they govern the properties and behaviors of matter.