Q. Fission of nuclei is possible because the binding energy per nucleon in them :
A) increases with mass number at high mass numbers
B) decreases with mass number at high mass numbers
C) increases with mass number at low mass numbers
D) decreases with mass number at low mass numbers
Explanation
[Solution from source] At high mass numbers the binding energy per nucleon falls as A increases, so splitting a heavy nucleus into medium nuclei raises the binding energy per nucleon and releases energy. Increase with A at low mass numbers explains fusion, not fission. Answer (2).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.