Question

which describes nuclear fusion? (1 point)
o starts when two atoms slam together to form one, heavier atom
o starts when two atoms slam together, causing the larger atom to split into two smaller atoms
o starts when a neutron slams into an atom, causing two atoms to form one, heavier atom
o starts when a neutron slams into an atom, causing the larger atom to split into two smaller atoms

Explanation:

To determine the correct description of nuclear fusion, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei (atoms) combine (slam together) to form a single, heavier atomic nucleus (atom). This matches the definition of fusion.
• Option 2: Describes a process where atoms collide and a larger atom splits, which is not fusion (fusion is combining, not splitting). This is more like a misdescription of a reaction or not related to fusion.
• Option 3: Nuclear fusion does not involve a neutron slamming into an atom to start the combination of two atoms. Fusion is the combination of atomic nuclei, not initiated by a neutron hitting an atom in this way.
• Option 4: This describes nuclear fission (splitting of a large atom into smaller ones, often initiated by a neutron), not fusion.

Answer:

A. starts when two atoms slam together to form one, heavier atom