A Distinction Between Nuclear Reactions and Chemical Reactions

The definition of a nuclear reaction from www.dictionary.com is a reaction, as in fission, fusion, or radioactive decay, that alters the energy, composition, or structure of an atomic nucleus.

The definition of a chemical reaction from www.dictionary.com is a process in which atoms of the same or different elements rearrange themselves to form a new substance. While they do so, they either absorb heat or give it off. When they absorb heat it is called an endothermic reaction and when they give off heat it is called an exothermic reaction.

The are six main differences between these nuclear reactions and chemical reactions.
In nuclear reactions...

1. protons and neutrons react inside the nucleus
2. elements transmute into other elements
3. isotopes react differently
4. independent of chemical combonation
5. energy changes equal 10^8 kJ
6. mass changes are detectable

In chemical reactions...

1. electrons react outside the nucleus
2. the same number of each kind of atom appear in the reactants and products
3. isotopes react the same
4. depend on chemical combination
5. energy changes equal 10^3 kJ/mol
6. mass reactants=mass products

NuclearReactions versus Chemical Reactions. http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/sciences/chemistry/NuclearChemistry/NuclearReactions/versusChemicalReactions/ChemicalReactions.htm