GED Science Practice

Which term refers to a nuclear reaction in which a massive nucleus splits into smaller nuclei with the simultaneous release of energy?

1. Night blindness

2. Molecule

3. Nuclear fission

4. Nerve

The correct answer is: Nuclear fission

The term that refers to a nuclear reaction in which a massive nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing energy in the process, is nuclear fission. This reaction occurs when an atom's nucleus absorbs a neutron and becomes unstable, leading it to split apart into two or more smaller nuclei along with the release of energy, typically in the form of kinetic energy of the fragments and also in the form of gamma radiation. Nuclear fission is the principle behind nuclear power generation and atomic bombs, showcasing its significance in both energy production and military applications. It is a fundamental process in nuclear physics and has wide-reaching implications for both energy policy and environmental considerations. Other terms, such as night blindness and nerve, don't relate to the context of nuclear reactions or fission. Night blindness refers to a vision impairment in low-light conditions, while nerve relates to the nervous system and does not pertain to atomic processes. Molecules, on the other hand, are the smallest identifiable units of a substance that retain its chemical properties, which are irrelevant in the context of nuclear reactions that involve the behaviors of atomic nuclei. Thus, nuclear fission stands out as the correct and relevant term for the described process.