Question detail
Which description correctly identifies nuclear fission rather than nuclear fusion?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Nuclear fission and fusion
Question
- A. A large unstable nucleus splits into smaller nuclei
- B. Two small nuclei join to form a larger nucleus
- C. An electron moves between energy levels
- D. A gamma ray is absorbed by an atom without nuclear change
Answer
The correct answer is that a large unstable nucleus splits into smaller nuclei. Nuclear fission is splitting; fusion is joining, so the word ?splits? is the key boundary in this question.
Explanation
Nuclear fission is the splitting of a large unstable nucleus into smaller nuclei, usually releasing energy and more neutrons. The option about two small nuclei joining describes nuclear fusion, not fission. Electron energy-level changes are atomic rather than nuclear fission, and gamma absorption does not describe a nucleus splitting. This question tests the fission/fusion boundary, so the answer must explicitly say a large unstable nucleus splits.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Nuclear Fission
Students often confuse nuclear fission with nuclear fusion, thinking both involve the splitting of nuclei.
Remember that nuclear fission specifically refers to the splitting of a large unstable nucleus, while nuclear fusion involves the joining of two light nuclei.
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