Nuclear Physics Challenge

What is the process by which a nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei called?

• nuclear fusion

• atomic splitting

• nuclear fission

• nucleus division

Which subatomic particle is responsible for holding the nucleus together?

• quark

• gluon

• neutrino

• photon

What is the term for the time it takes for half of a radioactive substance to decay?

• partial-life

• half-life

• semi-life

• mid-life

What is the unit used to measure the rate of radioactive decay?

• Sievert

• Curie

• Becquerel (Bq)

• Gray

What is the process by which a nucleus combines with another nucleus to form a heavier nucleus?

• Nuclear division

• Nuclear fusion

• Atomic bonding

• Nuclear fission

What is the most common isotope used as fuel in nuclear reactors?

• Uranium-235

• Thorium-232

• Hydrogen-1

• Plutonium-239

What is the term for the energy released when a nucleus undergoes fission or fusion?

• nuclear power

• atomic energy

• radiant energy

• nuclear energy

What is the name of the reaction that powers the sun and other stars?

• stellar explosion

• nuclear fission

• solar flare

• nuclear fusion

What is the term for the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two or more lighter nuclei?

• nuclear fission

• nuclear fusion reaction

• atomic fusion

• nuclear fusion

What is the minimum amount of fissionable material needed to sustain a chain reaction in a nuclear reactor?

• Threshold mass

• Critical point

• Bare minimum

• Critical mass