TEAS 7 science practice questions Related

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Which process is characterized by nuclear fission?

  • A. A heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and releasing energy
  • B. The fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element
  • C. A lighter element emitting an alpha particle through radioactive decay
  • D. An electron being absorbed by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nuclear fission is the process where a heavy nucleus, like uranium-235, captures a neutron, leading to its division into two lighter nuclei. This process releases a substantial amount of energy in the form of heat and gamma rays. It is utilized in nuclear power plants and atomic bombs due to its capacity to produce significant energy. Choices B, C, and D describe different nuclear processes: fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element, emission of alpha particles from a lighter element through radioactive decay, and absorption of an electron by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray, respectively. These processes are distinct from nuclear fission and do not involve the splitting of heavy nuclei into lighter ones.