Question

When \(_{92}^{235}U\) captures a bombarding neutron, the intermediate nucleus formed before it splits is:

Options

• \(_{56}^{144}Ba\)

• \(_{92}^{236}U\)

• \(_{92}^{235}U\)

• \(_{36}^{89}Kr\)

Answer 1

A neutron has mass number 1 and atomic number 0, so its capture raises the mass number from 235 to 236 while the atomic number stays at 92, forming \(_{92}^{236}U\). This intermediate nucleus then splits into two lighter nuclei with the release of neutrons.