Question

American homes and businesses use lots of energy and electricity. Scientists, politicians, and others always look for the best and safest ways to create energy and electricity for Americans. Nuclear energy is a source that could be used to meet the energy needs of the future. This form of power has to do with the core of an atom. Nuclear power uses controlled fission, which splits the nucleus, or core, of an atom. This fission reaction releases vast amounts of energy that heats up water. The heated water turns to steam. The steam rotates turbines, or wheels, to create electricity.
The first nuclear power plant went into operation in 1958 in Pennsylvania. Since then, dozens of these power plants have been built around the United States. As of 2011, nuclear energy accounted for about 20 percent of all energy production in the United States. One positive effect of nuclear energy is that it does not cause air pollution. The smoke billowing out of a nuclear power plant is actually just steam.
Despite the positive sides of nuclear energy, some people argue that it is far too hazardous. They argue that nuclear power plants can have a meltdown. This happens when the core of a nuclear power plant has a problem and releases harmful radiation. This can poison or kill animals and plants. Another argument against nuclear energy is that no long-term plan exists to dispose of the nuclear waste. Right now, most nuclear waste sits in barrels outside nuclear power plants. However, if the issues surrounding nuclear energy can be fixed, it could be an important energy source for years to come.
15
Based on the passage, fission most likely has to do with
A.
dividing the nucleus of an atom.
B.
combining the cores of atoms.
C.
creating air pollution from nuclear power.
D.
releasing steam from atoms and water.

Answer 1

Based on the passage, fission most likely has to do with:

A. dividing the nucleus of an atom.