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Question : 7
Total: 7
Draw the curve showing the variation of binding energy per nucleon with the mass number of nuclei. Using it explain the fusion of nuclei lying on ascending part and fission of nuclei lying on descending part of this curve.
Solution:
From the graph, it is clear that it has a peak near
(i) Fission Reactions From the curve, the heaviest nuclei are less stable than the nuclei near
(ii) Fusion Reactions
The curve also suggests energy can be released from the lighter elements (like hydrogen and helium) have nuclei those are less stable than heavier elements up to
In both fission and fusion reactions, the total masses after the reaction are less than those before. This "missing mass" appears as energy.
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