The compound unstabel nucleus `._(92)^(236)U` often decays in accordance with the following reaction
`._(92)^(236)U rarr ._(54)^(140)Xe +._(38)^(94)Sr ` + other particles
During the reaction, the uranium nucleus ''fissions'' (splits) into the two smaller nuceli have higher nuclear binding energy per nucleon (although the lighter nuclei have lower total nuclear binding energies, because they contain fewer nucleons).
Inside a nucleus, the nucleons (protonsa and neutrons)attract each other with a ''strong nuclear'' force. All neutrons exert approxiamtely the same strong nuclear force on each other. This force holds the nuclear are very close together at intranuclear distances.
A proton and a neutron are both shot at `100 m s^(-1)` toward a `._6^(12)C` nucleus. Which particle, if either, is more likely to be absorbed by the nucleus?

Options

A. The proton
B. The neutron
C. Both particles are about equally likely to be absorbed,.
D. Neither particle will be absorbed.

Explanation

To determine which particle, if either, is more likely to be absorbed by the carbon-12 nucleus when a proton and a neutron are shot at it with a speed of 100 m/s, we can analyze the interactions based on the properties of protons and neutrons.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Nucleus**:
- The carbon-12 nucleus consists of 6 protons and 6 neutrons. Protons are positively charged, while neutrons are neutral.

2. **Behavior of the Neutron**:
- When a neutron approaches the carbon nucleus, it does not experience any electrostatic repulsion because it is neutral.
- As the neutron gets closer to the nucleus, it will be attracted by the strong nuclear force, which is a force that acts between nucleons (protons and neutrons) at very short distances.
- Therefore, the neutron is likely to be absorbed by the nucleus.

3. **Behavior of the Proton**:
- When a proton approaches the carbon nucleus, it will face electrostatic repulsion from the 6 positively charged protons already present in the nucleus.
- This electrostatic force of repulsion is significant and will counteract the attractive strong nuclear force that acts on the proton.
- As a result, the proton is less likely to be absorbed by the nucleus due to this repulsion.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Since the neutron is attracted by the strong nuclear force and faces no repulsion, while the proton is repelled by the existing protons, the neutron is more likely to be absorbed by the carbon-12 nucleus.

### Final Answer:
The neutron is more likely to be absorbed by the nucleus.