Use the diagram to answer the question.

Question

An illustration shows a nuclear fission reaction in which a neutron hits a uranium nucleus. The uranium nucleus breaks into two smaller nuclei. Three additional neutrons and energy are released in the process.

Which statement best describes the charges of the particles involved?

(1 point)
Responses

A positive particle is striking a neutral particle, breaking it into more positive and neutral particles.
A positive particle is striking a neutral particle, breaking it into more positive and neutral particles.

A negative particle is striking a positive particle, breaking it into more negative and positive particles.
A negative particle is striking a positive particle, breaking it into more negative and positive particles.

A neutral particle is striking a positive particle, breaking it into more neutral and positive particles.
A neutral particle is striking a positive particle, breaking it into more neutral and positive particles.

A neutral particle is striking a negative particle, breaking it into more neutral and negative particles.

Answer 1

The correct statement that best describes the charges of the particles involved in the nuclear fission reaction is:

A neutral particle is striking a positive particle, breaking it into more neutral and positive particles.

In this scenario, the neutron (which is neutral) is striking the uranium nucleus (which is positively charged due to the protons it contains). This interaction causes the nucleus to undergo fission and release more neutrons (which are also neutral) and other particles, which can include positive particles as well.