PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Nuclear physics · Nuclear physics
Problem
Four nuclear reactions are listed below. According to the shape of the average binding-energy-per-nucleon curve, which reaction should release the greatest amount of energy per nucleon of reactant?
(a) Reaction II; it forms a nucleus closer to the iron peak, so it releases the most energy.
(b) Reaction I; it is induced fission of a heavy nucleus, like that used in nuclear reactors.
(c) Reaction III; it is fusion of very light nuclei leading toward the binding-energy peak.
(d) Reaction IV; breaking Fe-56 into α-particles must liberate a great deal of energy.