Step 1: Understanding Nuclear Fusion.
Nuclear fusion is the process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy. The energy released in fusion is described by Einstein’s mass-energy equivalence principle.
Step 2: Equation for Energy Released in Fusion.
The equation for the energy released in fusion is:
\[
E = mc^2
\]
Where:
- \( E \) is the energy released,
- \( m \) is the mass defect (the difference in mass before and after fusion),
- \( c \) is the speed of light.
Final Answer:
The energy released in nuclear fusion is given by \( E = mc^2 \).