which statement is always true when nuclear fusion occurs?
the combined number of protons and neutrons remains constant.
the number o fprotons in the resulting nucleus is double that of a starting nucleus
the total number of protons and neutrons in each nucleaus remains constant
the number of rpotons in the resulting nucleus is less than in each starting nucleus
To determine which statement is always true when nuclear fusion occurs, we need to understand the process of nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fusion is a reaction in which two or more atomic nuclei come together to form a new, larger nucleus. During this process, a significant amount of energy is released. Fusion is the primary process that powers stars, including the Sun.
Considering the statements:
1. The combined number of protons and neutrons remains constant: This statement is not always true in nuclear fusion. The total number of protons and neutrons in the resulting nucleus may differ from the initial nuclei involved.
2. The number of protons in the resulting nucleus is double that of a starting nucleus: This statement is also not always true. In nuclear fusion, the number of protons in the resulting nucleus depends on the atomic nuclei involved. Doubling the number of protons in the resulting nucleus is not a general rule.
3. The total number of protons and neutrons in each nucleus remains constant: This statement is not always true either. In nuclear fusion, the total number of protons and neutrons in each nucleus involved in the reaction may change.
4. The number of protons in the resulting nucleus is less than in each starting nucleus: This statement is consistently true in nuclear fusion. The resulting nucleus will have a fewer number of protons than the total combined protons of the initial nuclei. This is due to the conservation of electric charge and the repulsive nature of protons.
Therefore, the correct statement that is always true when nuclear fusion occurs is: "The number of protons in the resulting nucleus is less than in each starting nucleus."