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

Mass defect and nuclear binding energy — practice question

(a(i))[2]

Define the term nuclear binding energy.

(a(ii))[2]

Explain what is meant by the term nuclear fission reaction.

(b)[3]

A student suggests that one possible nuclear reaction is $^{56}_{26}\text{Fe} + ^{1}_{0}\text{n} \rightarrow ^{20}_{9}\text{F} + ^{37}_{17}\text{Cl}$. The binding energy per nucleon of a nucleus changes with nucleon number. Use this change to explain why the reaction would not produce a net release of energy.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: energy needed to separate the nucleons in a nucleus

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