Compared to an ordinary chemical reaction, a fission reaction will:
a
release a larger amount of energy.
b
absorb a larger amount of energy.
c
absorb a smaller amount of energy.
d
release a smaller amount of energy.
a
release a larger amount of energy.
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the difference between a fission reaction and an ordinary chemical reaction.
A fission reaction involves the splitting (or breaking apart) of the nucleus of an atom, typically a heavy element like uranium or plutonium. This reaction releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation.
On the other hand, an ordinary chemical reaction involves the rearrangement of atoms and the formation or breaking of chemical bonds. These reactions typically involve lighter elements and do not involve the breakup of atomic nuclei.
Now, let's consider the options:
a) Release a larger amount of energy: This is indeed correct. In a fission reaction, a large amount of energy is released due to the splitting of heavy atomic nuclei.
b) Absorb a larger amount of energy: This is incorrect. Fission reactions do not absorb energy; instead, they release a significant amount of energy.
c) Absorb a smaller amount of energy: This is incorrect. As stated before, fission reactions release a larger amount of energy.
d) Release a smaller amount of energy: This is incorrect. Fission reactions release a large amount of energy, not a smaller amount.
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) release a larger amount of energy.
A fission reaction, compared to an ordinary chemical reaction, will:
a) Release a larger amount of energy.
In a fission reaction, the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy. This energy is much larger than what is typically released in an ordinary chemical reaction, where only electrons rearrange to form new chemical bonds.