When a target nucleus is bombarded by an appropriate beam of particles, it is possible to produce a) a less massive nucleus, but not a more massive one. b) a more massive nucleus, but not a less massive one. c) a nucleus with smaller charge number, but not one with a greater charge number. d) a nucleus with greater charge number, but not one with a smaller charge number. e) a nucleus with either greater or smaller charge number.

Determine which statement is correct when a target nucleus is bombarded by an appropriate beam of particles.

When a target nucleus is bombarded by particles, it can experience either nuclear fusion or nuclear fission. Fusion is the process where two lighter nuclei combine to form a more massive nucleus, while fission is the process where a heavier nucleus splits into two or more lighter nuclei.

a) Producing a less massive nucleus is possible through fission but not through fusion. However, a more massive nucleus can be produced through fusion, so this statement is incorrect. b) Producing a more massive nucleus is possible through fusion but not through fission. However, a less massive nucleus can be produced through fission, so this statement is also incorrect. c) In both fusion and fission reactions, the charge number can either increase or decrease, so this statement is incorrect. d) In both fusion and fission reactions, the charge number can either increase or decrease, so this statement is incorrect as well. e) In both fusion and fission reactions, the charge number can either increase or decrease, depending on the specific reaction taking place. So, this statement is correct.

The correct statement is e) a nucleus with either greater or smaller charge number can be produced when a target nucleus is bombarded by an appropriate beam of particles.