Question detail
Which example best matches a nucleus commonly used to illustrate induced nuclear fission?
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. Uranium nucleus
- B. Hydrogen nucleus
- C. Helium nucleus
- D. Carbon atom in graphite
Answer
The correct answer is a uranium nucleus. GCSE Physics commonly uses uranium as an example of a large unstable nucleus that can undergo induced fission after absorbing a neutron.
Explanation
A uranium nucleus is correct because fission involves a large unstable nucleus splitting. Hydrogen and helium are light nuclei and are more associated with fusion contexts, not fission examples. A carbon atom in graphite is a material example, not the fission nucleus being split. This question tests the type of nucleus involved in fission, not the definition alone. A strong answer links uranium to a large unstable nucleus and induced splitting after neutron absorption.
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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