Two hypothetical nuclei A and B each contain the same total number of nucleons, but their binding energies per nucleon are 8.5 MeV and 7.6 MeV respectively.
(i) Which of the two nuclei is more stable? Give a reason for your answer on the basis of the given data.
(ii) Without performing any numerical calculation, state which nucleus has the larger mass defect per nucleon. Justify your answer conceptually.
(iii) If nucleus B could somehow be converted into nucleus A without change in total mass number, would energy be absorbed or released in the process? Explain briefly.