Question

If the total binding energies of ${}_1^{2}H,{}_2^{4}He,{}_{26}^{56}Fe\&{}_{92}^{235}U$ nuclei are $2.22,28.3,492$ and $1786$ MeV respectively, identify the most stable nucleus of the following.

• A. ${}_{26}^{56}Fe$
• B. ${}_1^{2}H$
• C. ${}_{92}^{235}U$
• D. ${}_2^{4}He$

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

${}_1^{2}H$

The binding energy is the energy that is required to break the nucleons apart. The curve of Binding energy per nucleon Vs the Mass number shows the highest binding energy is that of Iron no other is tightly bound. Except the light nuclei having $BE.56MeV.$

Hence the most stable nucleon is $2.22MeV$