Question

A nucleus of mass $M + \Delta m$ is at rest and decays into two daughter nuclei of equal mass $\frac{M}{2}$ each. Speed of light is c The binding energy per nucleon for the parent nucleus is $E_1$ and that for the daughter nuclei is $E_2$. Then

• A. $E_2 = 2E_1$
• B. $E_1 > E_2$
• C. $E_2 > E_1$
• D. $E_1 = 2E_2$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

$E_2 > E_1$

Answer 2

After decay, the daughter nuclei will be more stable hence binding energy per nucleon will be more than that of their parent nucleus.