The binding energy per nucleon of 26Fe is about 8.8MeV while that of 235U is about 7.6MeV. Which statement is most appropriate in the light of these values?
(a) 26Fe can release large energy by undergoing fission because splitting always increases the binding energy per nucleon for lighter nuclei.
(b) 235U is more stable than 26Fe because its total binding energy (235×7.6MeV) is larger.
(c) Fusion of light nuclei towards the iron region is energetically favourable because the average binding energy per nucleon increases.
(d) Because the difference in their binding energy per nucleon is only about 1.2MeV, the two nuclei are nearly equally stable.