Question

Modern designs of atomic bombs contain, in addition to uranium or plutonium, small amounts of tritium and deuterium to boost the power of explosion. What is the role of tritium and deuterium in these bombs?

Short answer

Tritium and deuterium are used in atomic bombs to boost the power of the explosion. When the fission bomb is detonated, the intense heat and pressure cause these elements to undergo nuclear fusion, which releases a significant amount of energy thereby intensifying the overall destructive power of the bomb.

Step-by-step solution

Overview of Nuclear Fusion

Tritium and deuterium are isotopes involved in nuclear fusion, a process where atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus with the release of energy. This energy is considerably higher compared to that released in a typical atomic bomb, which is based on nuclear fission (splitting of large atomic nuclei).

Role of Tritium and Deuterium in Atomic Bomb

The tritium and deuterium are placed in the bomb's core. When the fission bomb is detonated, the intense heat and pressure cause tritium and deuterium to undergo nuclear fusion. The fusion of tritium and deuterium produces helium and a neutron, accompanied by the release of a massive amount of energy.

Resulting Effect

The energy released from this fusion reaction significantly increases the overall destructive power of the bomb. Thus, tritium and deuterium serve the role of a 'booster' for the atomic bomb, leading to a far more powerful explosion than what could be achieved by fission alone.