GED Science Practice

Atomic fission is the process in which an atomic nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of a significant amount of energy. This release of energy occurs because the binding energy that holds the protons and neutrons together in the nucleus is converted into kinetic energy during the fission event.

In nuclear reactors and atomic bombs, fission plays a crucial role as it can initiate a chain reaction, where the fission of one nucleus can cause the fission of additional nuclei, leading to an exponential increase in energy release. The process is fundamental to understanding nuclear energy and its applications, including electricity generation and weaponry.

The other options describe unrelated concepts. One refers to a part of the heart's anatomy, while another mentions a specific region in our solar system, and the last option describes nuclear fusion, which involves combining nuclei rather than splitting them. Thus, the key concept of atomic fission is accurately captured in the correct answer.