Whats the difference between nuclear chemistry and nuclear energy?

Answer 1

Nuclear energy is, primarily, the controlled (or, in a bomb, the uncontrolled) release of binding energy (Strong Atomic Force) in the nucleus of an atom by the process of fission or fusion. All nuclear power plants and the Atomic bomb use fission. The Sun and the Hydrogen bomb use fusion1.

Nuclear chemistry, on the other hand, is the interrelationship between electron fields of various atoms as they interact to form various compounds, releasing and/or absorbing energy as they do so. Instead of the Strong Atomic Force, the electron field participate in the Electromagnetic Force, one of the other three primary forces. (The other two being the Weak Atomic Force, and Gravity.)

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1Technically, the Hydrogen bomb also uses fission. It requires so much energy to initiate the fusion reaction that we use an Atomic bomb to set off the Hydrogen bomb.

Answer 2

Nuclear chemistry involves the study of the chemical and physical properties of elements with unstable nuclei, as well as their reactions and decay processes. On the other hand, nuclear energy refers to the energy produced through nuclear reactions, primarily nuclear fission and fusion, which can be harnessed for various applications such as power generation or weaponry. Nuclear chemistry is a branch of chemistry that focuses on understanding nuclear reactions and their effects, while nuclear energy is the practical application of those reactions to produce power.