In the First Nuclear Reaction Observed,physicists Saw an Alpha Particle $55 \mathrm { MeV } \text {, }$

question 8

Multiple Choice

In the first nuclear reaction observed,physicists saw an alpha particle (Z = 2) interact with a nitrogen nucleus in air (Z = 7) to produce a proton.The energy of the alpha particle was $55 \mathrm { MeV } \text {, }$ enough to enable the nuclei to touch in spite of the Coulomb repulsion.What distance (in fm) between the centers of the alpha particle and the nitrogen was reached? This determines a limit on the radius of the nitrogen nucleus.(1 eV = 1.60 × 10^-19 J,e = 1.60 × 10^-19 C,1/4πε₀ = 8.99 × 10⁹ N ∙ m²/C²)

• A)0.37 fm
• B)0.18 fm
• C)0.05 fm
• D)158.40 fm

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Definitions:

Vestigial Structures

Anatomical features or behaviors that have lost all or most of their original function in a species through evolution.

Bioremediation

A method to clean up a hazardous waste site that uses microorganisms to break down toxic pollutants, or plants to selectively accumulate toxins.

Bacteria

Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms with a wide range of shapes and metabolic capabilities, some of which are vital for ecological and human health.

Fungi

An empire of spore-generating life forms that subsist on organic material, covering a range that includes molds, yeast, various mushrooms, and toadstools.