(a)[2]
State the meaning of the binding energy of a nucleus.
(b(i))[3]
Table 9.1 gives the masses of two sub-atomic particles and a polonium-212 nucleus $^{212}_{84}\text{Po}$. For the polonium-212 nucleus, find the mass defect $\Delta m$, in kg.
(b(ii))[2]
Calculate the binding energy.
(b(iii))[1]
Calculate the binding energy per nucleon.
(c(i))[2]
On Fig. 9.1, sketch how binding energy per nucleon varies with nucleon number $A$ for values of $A$ from 1 to 250.
(c(ii))[1]
On your line in Fig. 9.1, place an $X$ to indicate the approximate position of polonium-212.
(c(iii))[2]
Polonium-212 is radioactive and undergoes alpha-decay. Using Fig. 9.1, suggest and explain why alpha-decay of polonium-212 releases energy.