To solve this problem and determine which statement the completed equation best supports, let's consider the process involved in the reaction:
[tex]\[ {}_2^4 He + {}_2^4 He \longrightarrow ? \][/tex]
1. Understanding the Reaction:
- The symbol [tex]\({}_2^4 He\)[/tex] represents a helium nucleus, commonly referred to as an alpha particle.
- When two alpha particles (helium nuclei) combine, they undergo a nuclear reaction.
2. Outcome of the Fusion:
- In nuclear fusion, two light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.
- Specifically, when two helium nuclei fuse, they predominantly form a heavier element, such as carbon:
[tex]\[ {}_2^4 He + {}_2^4 He \rightarrow {}_6^{12}C \][/tex]
- This combination results in the formation of a heavier nucleus than helium.
3. Review of Statements Based on Fusion:
- Nuclear fusion produces elements that are heavier than helium: This statement is true because the fusion of two helium nuclei results in the formation of carbon, which is heavier than helium.
- Nuclear fusion produces elements that are lighter than helium: This statement is false because fusion typically produces heavier elements.
- Nuclear fission produces elements that are heavier than helium: This statement is incorrect because nuclear fission involves the splitting of a heavy nucleus into lighter nuclei.
- Nuclear fission produces elements that are lighter than helium: This statement is also incorrect because the fission of most heavy elements does not produce elements as light as helium.
Therefore, the completed equation [tex]\({}_2^4 He + {}_2^4 He \longrightarrow {}\)[/tex] best supports the statement:
Nuclear fusion produces elements that are heavier than helium.
