Which of the following is the process of splitting up of the heavy nucleus of a radioactive atom into smaller nuclei when bombarded with low energy neutrons?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Nuclear fission.
 This is the process in which the nucleus of a heavy atom, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, splits into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of a significant amount of energy. This splitting is often initiated by bombarding the heavy nucleus with low-energy neutrons. When a neutron collides with the nucleus, it causes the nucleus to become unstable and split into smaller nuclei, releasing additional neutrons and a large amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation.
· The released neutrons can further induce fission in other nearby heavy nuclei, leading to a chain reaction. This principle is the basis for the operation of nuclear reactors and atomic bombs.
· The energy released during nuclear fission is due to the conversion of a small amount of mass into energy, as described by Einstein's equation E=mc2.