Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Mass defect and nuclear binding energy
Mass defect and nuclear binding energy — practice question
A nuclear reaction that can occur inside a nuclear reactor may be shown, in part, by the equation $^{235}_{92}\text{U} + ^{1}_{0}\text{n} \rightarrow ^{95}_{42}\text{Mo} + ^{139}_{57}\text{La} + 2^{1}_{0}\text{n} + \dots\dots\dots + \text{energy}$. Information for a nucleus and some particles is given in Fig. 12.1.
(a)[1]
Complete the nuclear reaction shown above.
(b(i))[3]
Show that the energy equivalent of $1.00\,\text{u}$ is $934\,\text{MeV}$.
(b(ii))[3]
Calculate the binding energy per nucleon, in $\text{MeV}$, for lanthanum-139 ($^{139}_{57}\text{La}$).
(c)[3]
State and explain whether the binding energy per nucleon of uranium-235 ($^{235}_{92}\text{U}$) will be greater than, equal to or less than your answer in part (b)(ii).
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “$7\,^{0}_{-1}e$” …