The average binding energy per nucleon of deuteron is

PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Modern Physics · Modern Physics

Problem

The average binding energy per nucleon of deuteron

(^{2}_{1}\text{H})

1.1\,\text{MeV}

, while that of the helium-4 nucleus

(^{4}_{2}\text{He})

7.0\,\text{MeV}

. Two deuterons combine to form one helium-4 nucleus (ignore any other particles). Estimate the energy released in this fusion reaction. (a)

11.8\,\text{MeV}

(b)

9.6\,\text{MeV}

(c)

23.6\,\text{MeV}

(d)

25.8\,\text{MeV}