The binding energy per nucleon is greatest for nuclei near
Correct answer: B. iron
- A. hydrogen
- B. iron
- C. uranium
- D. helium
Explanation
The curve of binding energy per nucleon rises steeply from hydrogen, peaks around iron and nickel at about 8.8 MeV, then falls slowly towards uranium. Nuclei on the left release energy by fusing towards the peak and those on the right by splitting towards it. This is why iron is the end point of fusion in a massive star.
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About Composition of Atomic Nuclei
Atomic nuclei contain positively charged protons and electrically neutral neutrons, collectively called nucleons. Questions use atomic number, mass number and nuclear notation to identify isotopes, isobars and isotones, and may connect nuclear composition with nuclear charge, mass defect, binding energy and the stability of the nucleus.
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