In a nuclear power reactor of the type used to generate electricity, a neutron bombards a uranium nucleus, causing it to split into two large pieces (fission fragments) plus two or three neutrons. Energy is released in this process in the form of electromagnetic radiation and kinetic energy. Which of the following is an accurate statement concerning what happens in such a fission process? A) The electrical energy generated comes from the kinetic energy of the incident neutrons. B) An intermediate step involves the fusion of protons to form helium nuclei, and energy is released in this process. C) The total mass of the particles after fission is less than the total mass of the particles (uranium nucleus plus one neutron) before fission, and this decrease in mass $\Delta$m is converted into energy E, where E = $\Delta$mc². D) The electrical energy generated comes from chemical energy stored in the electron bonds of the uranium atom. E) Electrical energy is generated because the fission fragments are electrically charged, whereas the uranium was electrically neutral.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is based on the principle of mass-energy equivalence, as described by Einstein's equation $E = \Delta mc^2$. In nuclear fission, the total mass of the resulting particles is slightly less than the mass of the original nucleus plus the bombarding neutron. This mass difference is converted into energy, which is released as electromagnetic radiation and kinetic energy.

In a Nuclear Power Reactor of the Type Used to Generate