What nuclear process occurs when a heavy Uranium-235 nucleus is bombarded by a slow-moving thermal neutron, splitting into two lighter daughter nuclei?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Nuclear fission
- Step 1: Recall types of nuclear reactions: splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two lighter nuclei of comparable mass is defined as nuclear fission.
- Step 2: A Uranium-235 () nucleus captures a thermal neutron, becomes unstable, and splits into fission fragments (such as Barium and Krypton), releasing fast neutrons and energy.
Answer
Nuclear fission.
Why not the others: 'Nuclear fusion' is the merging of two light atomic nuclei into a heavier nucleus; 'Alpha radioactive decay' is the spontaneous emission of a helium-4 nucleus (); 'Gamma ionization' is the emission of high-energy photons from an excited nucleus.
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