What fundamental process is involved in atomic explosions?

The fundamental process involved in atomic explosions is the fission or fusion of atomic nuclei. In nuclear fission, the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy; this is the principle behind atomic bombs. In contrast, nuclear fusion involves combining lighter atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, which releases energy in processes that power stars, including the Sun, and are also the basis for hydrogen bombs.

Both fission and fusion are driven by the strong nuclear force, which governs the interactions between charged particles in atomic nuclei. The energy release from these processes is millions of times greater than that from conventional chemical reactions, such as combustion or oxidation, making them central to the operation of nuclear weapons. This is why the correct answer highlights fission and fusion; they are the core mechanisms of energy release in atomic explosions.