Q. If the binding energies of a deuteron and an alpha particle are 1.125MeV and 7.2MeV, respectively , then the more stable of the two is
A) deuteron
B) Alpha-particle
C) Both (a) and (b)
D) Sometimes deuteron and Sometimes Alpha-particle
Explanation
(b) In order to compare the stability of the nuclei of different atoms, binding energy per nucleon is determined. Higher the binding energy per nucleon more stable is the nucleus.
$\therefore$ BE per nucleon of deuteron = $\frac{1.125}{2}$
$= \ 0.5625\ MeV$
BE per nucleon of alpha particle =$\frac{7.2}{4}$ = 1.8 MeV
Since, binding energy per nucleon of alpha particle is more, hence it is more stable.
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.