When many atoms are split in a chain reaction, a large explosion occurs. This is an example of what type of energy conversion?:

a.) thermal to mechanical

b.) mechanical to chemical

c.) radiant to nuclear

d.) radiant to thermal

Answer: d.) radiant to thermal

Explanation:

Nuclear chain reactions occur in fission reactions only. Nuclear fission reactions are defined as the reactions in which larger nuclide splits into two or more smaller daughter nuclides.

In nuclear chain reaction, the neutrons that are released in the previous fission reaction act as the starting material in the next reaction. Thus, this process continues to many reactions and hence, is known as nuclear chain reaction.

Chemical energy is the energy stored in the bonds of molecules.

Mechanical energy is the energy possessed by a body by virtue of its position and motion.

Thermal energy is the energy possessed by a body by virtue of its temperature.

Radiant energy is the energy of electromagnetic waves.

Nuclear energy is the energy possessed in the nucleus of an atom.

According to law of conservation of energy, energy remains conserved. It only transforms from one form to another. When atoms are split in a chain reaction, the radiant energy of neutrons converts to thermal energy when it explodes