New Jersey NJSLA Science Grade 11 Practice Questions - New Jersey Student Learning Assessments - Science Grade 11 Exam

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A power plant uses uranium-235 in a reactor. A U-235 nucleus absorbs a neutron and splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing several neutrons and a large amount of energy. Which process is occurring, and what allows the reaction to sustain itself?

Nuclear fission; the neutrons released can split additional U-235 nuclei, forming a chain reaction that is controlled by neutron-absorbing rods. Nuclear fusion; the neutrons combine with U-235 to form heavier elements, releasing energy as mass is converted to energy. Nuclear fission; the nuclei released by the split are absorbed by the control rods and converted directly into electrical energy. Nuclear fusion; the splitting releases neutrons that fuse with each other to form new uranium nuclei, sustaining the reaction.

Correct Answer:

Nuclear fission; the neutrons released can split additional U-235 nuclei, forming a chain reaction that is controlled by neutron-absorbing rods.

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