Which of the following equations represents a nuclear fission reaction?

• A. ^{2}H + ^{3}H ightarrow ^{4}He + n
• B. ^{238}U ightarrow ^{234}Th + ^{4}He
• C. ^{14}C ightarrow ^{14}N + e^{-}
• D. ^{235}U + n ightarrow ^{141}Ba + ^{92}Kr + 3n

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between nuclear fission and other nuclear reactions: Nuclear fission is the process where a heavy nucleus splits into two or more lighter nuclei, often releasing neutrons and a large amount of energy.
2. Examine each given equation to identify the type of nuclear reaction it represents:
3. 1. \(^{2}H + ^{3}H \rightarrow ^{4}He + n\) is a fusion reaction where light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.
4. 2. \(^{238}U \rightarrow ^{234}Th + ^{4}He\) is an alpha decay, a type of radioactive decay where an alpha particle (\(^{4}He\)) is emitted.
5. 3. \(^{14}C \rightarrow ^{14}N + e^{-}\) is a beta decay, where a neutron in the nucleus converts to a proton and emits an electron.
6. 4. \(^{235}U + n \rightarrow ^{141}Ba + ^{92}Kr + 3n\) shows a heavy nucleus (\(^{235}U\)) absorbing a neutron and splitting into two lighter nuclei (\(^{141}Ba\) and \(^{92}Kr\)) plus additional neutrons, which is characteristic of nuclear fission.