Which statement is correct about nuclear fission

Question

It occurs when two atoms slam together to form one heavier atom
Is commonly fueled by iron
Occurs in the nuclei
Only occurs in stars

Answer 1

The correct statement about nuclear fission is: "Occurs in the nuclei."

Nuclear fission is the process where the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of energy. It typically occurs in heavy elements, such as uranium or plutonium, when a neutron strikes the nucleus.

To clarify the other statements:

• "It occurs when two atoms slam together to form one heavier atom" describes nuclear fusion, not fission.
• "Is commonly fueled by iron" is incorrect because iron is generally the end product of fusion processes in stars, and it is not a common fuel for fission.
• "Only occurs in stars" is also incorrect; while fusion occurs in stars, fission can occur in nuclear reactors and during nuclear weapons detonations.