Answer the following questions about the concept of the Q-value of a nuclear reaction.

PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Nuclear physics · Nuclear physics

Problem

Answer the following questions about the concept of the Q-value of a nuclear reaction. (i) Define the Q-value of a nuclear reaction. (ii) Explain how the sign of the Q-value helps in deciding whether a nuclear reaction is exothermic or endothermic. (iii) A certain nuclear reaction leads to a decrease in the total rest mass of the system by 3.6×10−30 kg3.6\times10^{-30}\,\text{kg}. Without performing any numerical calculation, state whether the reaction releases energy or absorbs energy. Justify your answer.

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