the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei releasing a vast amount of energy is called

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science quizlet

1. What is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a vast amount of energy called?

A. Nuclear fusion
B. Nuclear fission
C. Radioactive decay
D. Chain reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nuclear fission. Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a vast amount of energy. This process is commonly used in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. It is a controlled chain reaction that generates energy. Option A, Nuclear fusion, is the process of combining two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. This process powers the sun and other stars. Option C, Radioactive decay, is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. Option D, Chain reaction, is a self-sustaining reaction where the products of one reaction event stimulate further reaction events. While chain reactions can occur in both nuclear fission and fusion, the specific process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller ones is known as nuclear fission.

2. Which of the following situations represents work being done on an object?

A. Pushing against a wall without moving it
B. Carrying a heavy object without lifting it
C. Lifting a box to place it on a shelf
D. Holding a book stationary in your hand

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Work is defined as the product of the force applied to an object and the distance over which the force is applied. In the situation of lifting a box to place it on a shelf, work is being done on the object. This is because lifting the box involves applying a force over a distance (the height of the shelf). The force applied to lift the box results in work being done on the object by raising it against the force of gravity. Choices A, B, and D do not involve work being done on the object as they either do not involve movement against a force (A, D) or do not cover distance against a force (B).

3. How does the stability of an atom's nucleus influence its radioactive decay?

A. Stable nuclei never undergo radioactive decay.
B. Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes.
C. Decay releases energy, making stable nuclei more prone to it.
D. The element's position on the periodic table determines its decay rate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes. The stability of an atom's nucleus is a crucial factor in determining whether it will undergo radioactive decay. Unstable nuclei have an excess of either protons or neutrons, causing an imbalance in the nucleus. To achieve a more stable configuration, these nuclei will undergo radioactive decay by emitting particles or energy. On the contrary, stable nuclei are less likely to undergo radioactive decay as they possess a balanced number of protons and neutrons. Choice A is incorrect because stable nuclei can still undergo radioactive decay, albeit less frequently. Choice C is incorrect as decay does not make stable nuclei more prone to it; rather, it stabilizes them. Choice D is incorrect because an element's decay rate is primarily determined by the nucleus's stability, not its position on the periodic table.

4. Which of the following statements is not true about the relationship between the gastrointestinal system and the endocrine system?

A. Hormones signal to your body whether you are hungry or full.
B. Hormones regulate the amount of glucose in your blood.
C. Hormones stimulate digestive enzymes and peristalsis when you've eaten and need to digest food.
D. All of the above are true.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The gastrointestinal system and the endocrine system are closely interconnected. Hormones released by the endocrine system play a crucial role in signaling hunger or fullness, regulating blood glucose levels, and stimulating digestive processes like enzyme secretion and peristalsis for efficient food digestion. Option D, stating 'All of the above are true,' is incorrect in the context of the question because there is a need to identify the statement that is not true about the relationship between the gastrointestinal system and the endocrine system. Choices A, B, and C are all correct statements that reflect the close relationship and interactions between the gastrointestinal and endocrine systems.

5. Which macromolecule serves as the repository of genetic information in all living organisms?

A. Ribonucleic acid (RNA)
B. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
C. Protein
D. Carbohydrate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: - DNA is the macromolecule that serves as the repository of genetic information in all living organisms. It carries the genetic instructions necessary for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of organisms. - RNA (option A) is involved in various cellular processes, including protein synthesis, but DNA is the primary molecule responsible for storing genetic information. - Proteins (option C) are essential for various cellular functions but do not serve as the primary repository of genetic information. - Carbohydrates (option D) are important for energy storage and structural support but do not store genetic information.