Which of the following best describes an exothermic nuclear fission reaction?
A)The number of nucleons changes before and after the reaction.
B)The mass of the products is less than the mass of the reactants.
C)The energy released decreases with a greater loss of mass.
D)All of the above describe a fusion reaction.
E)None of the above describe a fusion reaction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An exothermic nuclear fission reaction involves the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei, which results in a decrease in mass. The mass of the products is thus less than the mass of the reactants, making choice B the correct one. Choices A and C refer to general characteristics of nuclear reactions, but are not specific to exothermic fission reactions. Choice D is incorrect, as fusion and fission reactions are different processes.

Which of the Following Best Describes an Exothermic Nuclear Fission