The variation of average binding energy per nucleon with mass number shows a…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Modern Physics · Modern Physics
Problem
The variation of average binding energy per nucleon with mass number A shows a prominent peak near iron. Answer the following questions related to this observation.
(i) Define (a) the binding energy of a nucleus and (b) the average binding energy per nucleon.
(ii) Explain qualitatively why the average binding energy per nucleon rises rapidly from hydrogen up to nuclei of mass number about 56.
(iii) Arrange the nuclei 4He, 56Fe and 238U in ascending order of nuclear stability and state one reason for your arrangement.