Question

which energy transformation occurs in the core of a nuclear reactor?
○ nuclear energy → mechanical energy
○ nuclear energy → thermal energy
○ thermal energy → nuclear energy
○ mechanical energy → nuclear energy

Explanation:

In a nuclear reactor's core, nuclear fission (splitting of atomic nuclei) occurs. This process releases nuclear energy, which is converted into thermal (heat) energy. The other options are incorrect: nuclear to mechanical would be later in the reactor system (e.g., turbine), and the reverse energy conversions (thermal to nuclear, mechanical to nuclear) don't happen in the core's fission process.

Answer:

B. nuclear energy $
ightarrow$ thermal energy (assuming the options are labeled A, B, C, D with the second option as B; if the original options had different labels, adjust accordingly, but based on the list, the correct one is "nuclear energy $
ightarrow$ thermal energy")