Nuclear Reactions

Fission is the combining of two low-mass nuclei into one nucleus with a larger mass.

• True

• False

The process of splitting a nucleus into several smaller nuclei is called nuclear fusion.

• True

• False

Only small nuclei can undergo the process of nuclear fission.

• True

• False

A series of repeated fusion reactions caused by the release of neutrons in each reaction

• True

• False

A chain reaction can be controlled by adding materials that absorb electrons.

• True

• False

The sun is composed mainly of oxygen.

• True

• False

Both a fusion reaction and a fission reaction ____.

• causes chain reactions

• produce energy

• take place at room temperature

• use hydrogen as a fuel

Neutrons released in a fission reaction can strike other nuclei and cause ____.

• a chain reaction

• an electron avalanche

• fusion reactions

• radioactive decay

Which of the following elements is most likely to be produced during a nuclear fusion reaction in the Sun?

• helium-4

• hydrogen-1

• uranium-235

• uranium-238

A particle released during the fission of uranium-235 is a(n) _____.

• neutron

• alpha particle

• beta particle

• gamma ray