Which of the following correctly balances this nuclear fission reaction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The balanced equation for the nuclear fission reaction depicted in the image is:

235U + 1n → 141Ba + 92Kr + 3(1n)

The atomic numbers on both sides of the equation must balance, meaning the sum of the atomic numbers on the left side (92+1=93) must equal the sum of the atomic numbers on the right side (56+36+0=92).

Similarly, the mass numbers on both sides of the equation must also balance, meaning the sum of the mass numbers on the left side (235+1=236) must equal the sum of the mass numbers on the right side (141+92+3(1)=236).

Only option C satisfies both conditions, with the correct atomic and mass numbers on both sides of the equation.

Which of the Following Correctly Balances This Nuclear Fission Reaction