GED Science TestPhysical ScienceMedium
A nuclear power plant generates electricity by harnessing the energy released from the splitting of atomic nuclei. This process is known as:
- ACombustion
- BNuclear fusion
- CChemical reaction
- DNuclear fission
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Nuclear fission
Nuclear fission is the process where the nucleus of a heavy atom (like uranium or plutonium) splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This is the principle behind current nuclear power plants.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Combustion is a rapid chemical reaction involving a fuel and an oxidant, producing heat and light, but not nuclear energy.
- B. Nuclear fusion is the process of combining light nuclei to form a heavier one, releasing energy (e.g., in the sun).
- C. Chemical reactions involve the rearrangement of electrons and atoms, not the splitting of nuclei, and release far less energy.
Nuclear Fission
Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller, lighter nuclei, often producing gamma photons and releasing a very large amount of energy.
- Used in nuclear power plants.
- Involves heavy elements like Uranium-235.
- Initiated by neutron bombardment.
Memory trick: Nuclear energy is either 'Splitting' or 'Sticking'.