Question

Which statement describes the process shown?

2H
4He
3H
neutron
A. The process is nuclear fission, in which one nucleus splits apart to
form two smaller nuclei.
B. The process is nuclear fusion in which one nucleus splits apart to
form two smaller nuclei.
C. The process is nuclear fission, in which two smaller nuclei
combine to form one larger nucleus.
D. The process is nuclear fusion, in which two smaller nuclei
combine to form one larger nucleus.

Answer 1

The process shown is:

2H
4He
3H
neutron

This process involves the combination of two hydrogen nuclei (2H) to form a helium nucleus (4He), which also releases a neutron and a significant amount of energy. This process is an example of nuclear fusion, in which smaller nuclei combine to form a larger nucleus.

Therefore, the correct statement that describes the process shown is:

D. The process is nuclear fusion, in which two smaller nuclei combine to form one larger nucleus.