ductory Physics 10 Some atomic nuclei can be split apart into fragments and other particles, such as neutrons. Once a nucleus is split, fragments move away from each other very quickly. The fragments then slow down as they interact with the surrounding medium. An example of this process is shown in the diagram. Fragment Neutron particle Nucleus of an atom Neutron particle Neutron particle Fragment What type of nuclear process occurs when an atomic nucleus splits into fragments? fission fusion Which of the following describes the energy during this nuclear process? The fragments initially have kinetic energy, which is transferred to the surrounding medium as mass. The fragments initially have gravitational energy, which is transferred to the surrounding medium as mass. The fragments initially have kinetic energy, which is transferred to the surrounding medium as thermal energy. 12 The fragments initially have gravitational energy, which is transferred to the surrounding medium as thermal energy. Go On >>