The process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two lighter nuclei of comparable masses is known as:
A. Radioactive decay
B. Nuclear fission
C. Nuclear fusion
D. Isotope formation
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
Nuclear fission is the process where a heavy, unstable nucleus (like Uranium-235) is split into two smaller, stable nuclei when bombarded with a neutron. This process releases a massive amount of energy and more neutrons, triggering a chain reaction. Nuclear fusion is the opposite process (combining light nuclei).
The Chandrasekhar Limit is a fundamental concept in astrophysics that determines the ultimate fate of a star. It is specifically defined as the maximum mass of a:
Explanation:
Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar calculated that a White Dwarf star cannot support itself against gravitational collapse if its mass exceeds approximately 1.44 times the mass of our Sun. This is the Chandrasekhar limit. Stars above this mass limit will eventually collapse further into a dense neutron star or a black hole.
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