Nuclear fission

1. Splitting of a heavy nucleus into two or more light nuclei
2. Takes place at room temperature
3. Comparatively less amount of energy is released
4. Fission reaction can be controlled and the energy released can be used to generate electricity
5. It is a chain reaction
6. It leaves behind radioactive wastes


Nuclear Fusion
1. Combination of two light nuclei to form a heavy nucleus
2. Requires a very high temperature equal to 4 X 106 ºC
3. Enormous amount of energy is released
4. Fusion reaction cannot be controlled and hence the energy released cannot be used to generate electricity
5. It is not a chain reaction
6. It does not leave behind any radio active wastes