Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Mass defect and nuclear binding energy

Mass defect and nuclear binding energy — practice question

(a)[3]

State the meanings of nuclear fusion and nuclear fission.

(b(i))[1]

A nuclear reaction that could, in the future, be used to generate electrical energy is $^{2}_{1}\text{H} + {}^{3}_{1}\text{H} \rightarrow {}^{4}_{2}\text{He} + x$. Name the particle $x$.

(b(ii).1)[1]

Fig. 12.1 gives data for the binding energy per nucleon $E_B$ of several nuclei. State the binding energy per nucleon of $x$.

(b(ii).2)[3]

Calculate the energy change produced in this reaction.

(b(iii))[1]

Use your answer to part (ii) part 2 to find the energy released when $2.0\,\text{g}$ of deuterium $({}^{2}_{1}\text{H})$ reacts with $3.0\,\text{g}$ of tritium $({}^{3}_{1}\text{H})$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Fusion: two nuclei join together; Fission: a heavy nucleus splits apart

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