Four nuclei of an element undergo fusion to form a heavier nucleus, with release of energy. Which of the two — the parent or the daughter nucleus — would have higher binding energy per nucleon?
Answer: The daughter (heavier) nucleus.
Solution
Energy is released in fusion only when the product is more tightly bound than the reactants, i.e. when it has a greater binding energy per nucleon.
Hence the heavier (daughter) nucleus has the higher binding energy per nucleon.
Hence the heavier (daughter) nucleus has the higher binding energy per nucleon.
CBSE Class 12 Board · 2018 · Subjective