Question

For nuclei with mass number close to 119 and 238, the binding energies per nucleon are approximately 7.6 MeV and 8.6 MeV respectively. If a nucleus of mass number 238 breaks into two nuclei of nearly equal masses, what will be the approximate amount of energy released in the process of fission?

• A. 214 MeV
• B. 119 MeV
• C. 2047 MeV
• D. 1142 MeV

Answer 1

The correct option is A 214 MeV

Total B.E of reactant-Total B.E of products = Energy released
$E=238\times 8.6-119\times 2\times 7.6=238\times 1\left(MeV\right)$

Since, the energy released will also be transferred as kinetic energy of the daughter nuclei. Therefore the answer closest to $238MeV$ from option should be chosen.