Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]PhysicsThe Nucleus
In a nuclear fission reaction,
Options
- Atwo light nuclei merge to form a heavier nucleus and possibly other products
- Ba heavy nucleus divides into two fragments by itself
- Ca light nucleus breaks apart when bombarded by thermal neutrons
- Da heavy nucleus breaks apart when bombarded by thermal neutrons
Correct answer
D. a heavy nucleus breaks apart when bombarded by thermal neutrons
Step-by-step solution
Nuclear fission is a process in which a heavy nucleus (such as ²³⁵ U ) splits into two lighter nuclei of comparable masses when bombarded by a low-energy thermal neutron. The merging of two light nuclei is called nuclear fusion. Therefore, in a nuclear fission reaction, a heavy nucleus breaks apart when bombarded by thermal neutrons.