Final answer:
The statement about the probability of nuclear fusion being increased when nuclei are brought close together, and the need to overcome Coulomb repulsion using kinetic energy, is true. This energy can be provided by heating the constituent ions or by direct acceleration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the concept that the probability of nuclear fusion is greatly enhanced when the appropriate nuclei are brought close together, overcoming their mutual Coulomb repulsion. This overcoming of Coulomb repulsion can be done by providing enough kinetic energy to the nuclei, either through high-temperature gas ions or by accelerating the nuclei toward one another. A) True B) False.
When considering this statement, it is indeed true that nuclear fusion is more likely when nuclei are in close proximity. Due to the Coulomb repulsion—a result of their like positive charges—the nuclei resist getting close enough to allow for the strong nuclear force to take effect and cause fusion. Therefore, sufficient kinetic energy must be imparted to these particles, either via heating to create high-temperature ions with the necessary energy to overcome the repulsive potential barrier or by directly accelerating them towards each other.