Question

In a nuclear fission reaction, a nucleus $A$ is divided into nuclei $B$ and $C$, their binding energies being $E_a$, $E_b$ and $E_c$ respectively. Then,

• A. $E_a=E_b+E_c$
• B. $E_a>E_b+E_c$
• C. $E_a<E_b+E_c$
• D. $E_a=E_b\times E_c$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $E_a>E_b+E_c$

The binding energy of a nucleus is given by,
$E_b=\Delta m{c}^2$

In fission reaction, a small fraction of mass of $A$ is converted into energy, so that,
$M_a>M_b+M_c$

Therefore, $E_a>E_b+E_c$

Hence, $\left(B\right)$ is the correct answer.