How do both fusion and fission bombs create an exothermic reaction?

Question

Doesn’t fusion release energy, while fission requires it?

In: Chemistry

Answer 1

Both fusion and fission can either require or release energy, it simply depends on which elements are being fused / fissioned. Lighter elements are easier to fuse together than to break apart, while heavier elements are easier to break apart than to fuse together. [This chart](https://i.stack.imgur.com/PG3WB.gif) demonstrates this.