Let's break down the nuclear equation step-by-step to determine which nuclear process it illustrates.
The equation given is:
[tex]\[ {}_1^2 H + {}_1^3 H \rightarrow {}_2^4 He + {}_0^1 n \][/tex]
First, let's identify the elements and particles involved:
1. [tex]\({}_1^2 H\)[/tex] is a deuterium nucleus, which is a type of hydrogen nucleus consisting of one proton and one neutron.
2. [tex]\({}_1^3 H\)[/tex] is a tritium nucleus, which is another type of hydrogen nucleus consisting of one proton and two neutrons.
3. [tex]\({}_2^4 He\)[/tex] is a helium-4 nucleus, consisting of two protons and two neutrons.
4. [tex]\({}_0^1 n\)[/tex] is a neutron.
Now, let's analyze the process described by this equation:
- On the left side of the equation, we have two hydrogen nuclei (deuterium and tritium) combining.
- On the right side of the equation, we have a helium nucleus and a neutron as the products.
Therefore, two lighter nuclei (deuterium and tritium) are combining to form a heavier nucleus (helium) and a neutron.
This process is known as nuclear fusion. Specifically, nuclear fusion involves the combining of lighter atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, accompanied by the release of energy.
Among the given choices, the correct one is:
Nuclear fusion, because the equation shows two hydrogen nuclei combining to form a helium nucleus.
