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Which changes happen in a nuclear fusion reaction?(1 point)
The number of nucleons stays the same, while total mass decreases slightly.
The number of nucleons stays the same, while total mass increases slightly.
The number of nuclei stays the same, while total mass increases slightly.
The number of nuclei stays the same, while total mass decreases slightly.
1st one
To determine which changes happen in a nuclear fusion reaction, we need to understand the concepts of nucleons and mass in the context of nuclear reactions.
Nucleons refer to the particles found in the nucleus of an atom, specifically protons and neutrons. In a fusion reaction, two atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.
Now, let's analyze each option to determine the correct answer:
1. The number of nucleons stays the same, while total mass decreases slightly.
2. The number of nucleons stays the same, while total mass increases slightly.
3. The number of nuclei stays the same, while total mass increases slightly.
4. The number of nuclei stays the same, while total mass decreases slightly.
In a nuclear fusion reaction, the process involves the combining of atomic nuclei, which means that the number of nuclei decreases as they merge. Thus, options 3 and 4 can be eliminated.
During a nuclear fusion reaction, a small amount of mass is converted into energy, following Einstein's mass-energy equivalence formula (E=mc²). Consequently, the total mass of the reactants decreases slightly. This eliminates options 1 and 2.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
The number of nuclei stays the same, while total mass decreases slightly.
Remember, it is essential to understand the concepts and principles behind the topic to arrive at the correct answer.
In a nuclear fusion reaction, the correct answer is:
The number of nucleons stays the same, while total mass decreases slightly.