Final answer:
The correct identification for the given processes as nuclear (N) or chemical (C) is 'a. N, C, N, C'. In the core of the sun, nuclear fusion occurs (N), the combustion of fossil fuels is a chemical process (C), fission in nuclear power plants is nuclear (N), and energy in biomass comes from a chemical process (C).
Step-by-step explanation:
Identification of Processes as Nuclear or Chemical
To address the student's question about whether certain processes are nuclear (N) or chemical (C), let us consider each one:
- In the core of the sun: The energy in the Sun is produced by the process of nuclear fusion, where light nuclei such as hydrogen fuse to form heavier nuclei like helium. This process is definitely nuclear. Hence, this is N.
- Combustion of fossil fuels: This involves breaking and forming chemical bonds during the reaction of fossil fuels with oxygen. This is a chemical reaction, so it is C.
- Fission in nuclear power plants: Energy is generated by splitting large atomic nuclei into smaller ones, in a process called nuclear fission. This is a nuclear process, and so, it is N.
- Energy in biomass: Similar to the combustion of fossil fuels, the energy in biomass comes from the chemical reaction of organic matter with oxygen. Thus, this is a chemical process and is categorized as C.
Based on these descriptions, the correct answer is a. N, C, N, C'.