Calculating energy released by fission.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the energy released during the fusion of four hydrogen atoms into one helium nucleus, resulting in an energy release of 7.4 MeV. The calculation involves using average binding energies, where the binding energy of four hydrogen atoms is 1.6 MeV, and the binding energy of helium is 9 MeV. A key point raised is the necessity of considering mass-energy conservation and the conversion of protons to neutrons during the fusion process. The discussion also highlights the importance of using particle masses for accurate calculations rather than solely relying on binding energies.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear fusion processes
  • Knowledge of binding energy concepts in nuclear physics
  • Familiarity with mass-energy equivalence principles
  • Basic understanding of particle physics, including protons and neutrons
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of binding energy in nuclear reactions
  • Learn how to calculate energy release using mass defect and Einstein's equation (E=mc²)
  • Explore the fusion processes of hydrogen isotopes and their energy outputs
  • Investigate the role of conservation of mass-energy in nuclear reactions
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in nuclear physics, astrophysics, and anyone interested in understanding the energy dynamics of fusion reactions.

nima rahmani
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hey guys.
i have answered my question but i am not quite sure about it.
Four hydrogen atoms fuse to produce one helium nucleus.calculate how many MeV of energy is released in this
process. You are calculating how much energy is released by the fusion of four hydrogen atoms.

what i have done: average binding energy 4 H: 0.4*4 MeV = 1.6MeV
Then: Average binding energy of He: 9 MeV.
SO the energy release would be 9 MeV - 1,6MeV = 7.4 MeV.

THANKS.
 
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In this (fictional) fusion process, no isotopes are involved, no positron, gamma or other subparticles are involved, so I would just argue conservation of mass-energy. I don't know how far along you are in particle physics, course-wise.
 
Where does the 9 MeV value for helium come from and what does it mean?

This does not work - two protons have to convert to neutrons, and this reaction also produces something else.
Instead of using binding energies, is easier to look up the masses of all relevant particles, and to compare them.
 

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