Question

What causes the immediate destructive action of a nuclear explosion?

a) Uncontrolled chain reaction resulting in the splitting of atomic nuclei (fission).
b) Rapid fusion of atomic nuclei producing a shockwave.
c) Controlled release of radiation particles.
d) Conversion of matter into energy through fusion reactions.

Answer 1

The immediate destructive action of a nuclear explosion is caused by an uncontrolled chain reaction resulting in the splitting of atomic nuclei (fission), which releases energy and leads to an explosion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The immediate destructive action of a nuclear explosion is caused by an uncontrolled chain reaction resulting in the splitting of atomic nuclei (fission). When an atomic nucleus splits, energy is produced, and this energy is released exponentially and in an uncontrolled fashion, leading to an explosion. The increase in energy with each fission event creates a runaway process, resulting in a nuclear explosion.