For an atomic nucleus, the binding energy per nucleon with an increase in mass number
Correct answer: D. first increases and then decreases with an increase in mass number
- A. increases continuously
- B. decreases continuously
- C. remains constant
- D. first increases and then decreases with an increase in mass number
Explanation
D is the right option because In atomic nuclei, the binding energy per nucleon initially increases with an increase in mass number until it reaches a maximum value around the mass number 56 (iron nucleus). After that, it decreases with further increase in mass number. This is because nuclei become less stable as they become larger, leading to a decrease in binding energy per nucleon.
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Atomic nuclei contain protons and neutrons, with nuclear size, mass defect and binding energy describing their stability. The work covers alpha, beta and gamma decay, decay equations, half-life and decay rate, along with radiation safety and medical applications such as imaging, radiotherapy and tracers.
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