Question

The above is a plot of binding energy per nucleon $E_b$, against the nuclear mass $M$; $A,B,C,D,E,F$ correspond to different nuclei. Consider four reactions:
(i) $A+B\to C+\epsilon$
(ii) $C\to A+B+\epsilon$
(iii) $D+E\to F+\epsilon$
(iv) $F\to D+E+\epsilon$
where $\epsilon$ is the energy released? In which reactions is $\epsilon$ positive.

• A. (ii) and (iv)
• B. (ii) and (iii)
• C. (i) and (iv)
• D. (i) and (iii)

Answer 1

The correct option is C (i) and (iv)

In a spontaneous reaction product has always Binding energy greater than that of reactants. So, (i) is a fusion reaction and (iv) is a fission reaction.