Chemical reactions are accompanied by relatively small changes in energy; nuclear reactions are accompanied by relatively large changes in energy.
Chemical reaction normally occurs outside the nucleus. Nuclear reaction happens only inside the nucleus. When chemical reactions occur elements hold their identity and the nuclei of atoms also remains unchanged. During nuclear reactions, the nuclei of atoms changes completely and new elements are formed.
Rates of chemical reactions are influenced by temperature and catalysts. Rates of nuclear reactions are unaffected by such factors. Nuclear reactions are independent of the chemical form of the element. Energy changes accompanying nuclear reactions are much larger.
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