Question

Binding energy per nucleon versus mass number curve for nuclei is shown in fig.W, X, Y, and Z are four nuclei indicated on the curve. The process that would release energy is

• A. $Y\to 2Z$
• B. $W\to X+Z$
• C. $X\to Y+Z$
• D. $W\to 2Y$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

The correct option is C $X\to Y+Z$

If it is mass A

$Y\to 2Z$

Reactant $R=60\times 8.5=10meV$

Product $P=2\times 30\times 5=300meV$

$\Delta E=-210meV$

Therefore Endothermic

If it was C

$W\to 2Y$

$R=120\times 75=900meV$

$P=2\times 60\times 8.5=1020meV$

$\Delta E=120meV$

Therefore Exothermic

If it was D

$X\to Y+Z$

$R=90\times 8=720meVP=60\times 8.5+30\times 5=66.0meV$

$\Delta E=-60meV$

Therefore Endothermic