Question

a scientist working on the problem of sustainable energy measures the energy released on several reactions. based on the data below, which statement best describes the most likely type of reaction occurring? reaction energy released (kj) a 890 kj b 9.25 x 10^9 kj c 34690 kj o reaction a is most likely nuclear fission, where a large atom is split due to a neutron striking the atom. o reaction b is most likely nuclear fusion, where two smaller atoms collide at great speed and fuse to form a larger atom. o reaction c is most likely a chemical reaction, while a and c and both nuclear processes of fusion or fission. o reactions a and b are most likely radioactive decay, where an atom decays and releases a decay particle.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall nuclear reaction definitions

Nuclear fission is when a large atom is split by a neutron striking it. Nuclear fusion is when two smaller atoms collide and fuse. Chemical reactions involve electron - level changes, not nuclear changes. Radioactive decay is when an atom decays and releases a particle.

Step2: Analyze Reaction A

Reaction A releases 890 kJ and is described as a large atom being split due to a neutron striking it, which is the definition of nuclear fission.

Step3: Analyze Reaction B

Reaction B releases 9.25×10⁹ kJ and is described as two smaller atoms colliding and fusing to form a larger atom, which is nuclear fusion.

Step4: Analyze Reaction C

Reaction C releases 34690 kJ. Since no information is given about the nature of the reactants and products in terms of atom - size changes like splitting or fusing, and the energy release is different from the typical magnitudes of fission and fusion, it is most likely a chemical reaction.

Answer:

C. Reaction B is most likely nuclear fusion, where two smaller atoms collide at great speed and fuse to form a larger atom. Reaction C is most likely a chemical reaction, while A is a nuclear fission, where a large atom is split due to a neutron striking the atom.