Correct statement regarding the graph of binding energy per nucleon

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SUMMARY

The correct answers regarding the graph of binding energy per nucleon are Options C and D. Option C is validated as both fusion and fission processes lead to products with higher binding energy per nucleon, indicating increased stability. The discussion highlights that elements heavier than iron are formed through stellar fusion processes. Misinterpretations regarding Option D were clarified, confirming its correctness alongside Option C.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear binding energy concepts
  • Knowledge of fusion and fission processes
  • Familiarity with the stability of atomic nuclei
  • Basic principles of stellar nucleosynthesis
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  • Research the process of stellar nucleosynthesis in detail
  • Learn about the stability of atomic nuclei and the role of binding energy
  • Explore the differences between fusion and fission reactions
  • Study the graph of binding energy per nucleon for various elements
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songoku
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Homework Statement
The graph below shows how the binding energy per nucleon of a nucleus varies with mass number A
(graph is given below)

Let region P is around mass number equals to 5, region Q is around mass number equals to 50 and region R is around mass number equals to 200

Which one of the following statements is not true?
a. The binding energy per nucleon increases most significantly at lower nucleon numbers
b. Nuclei in region Q are more stable than nuclei in region R
c. Nuclear fusion reaction bring nuclei closer to region Q
d. Energy is released in nuclear fission reactions from nuclei in region R
Relevant Equations
Not sure
Option A is correct because the graph increases sharply at lower nucleon number

Option B is correct because higher binding energy per nucleon means more stable

Option C is correct because either fusion or fission will bring the product to Q

So my guess the answer is D but I do not understand why

Thanks
bindenrg.gif
 
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songoku said:
Option C is correct because either fusion or fission will bring the product to Q
Regardless of the mass numbers of the original atomic species?
 
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haruspex said:
Regardless of the mass numbers of the original atomic species?

Yes I think so
 
songoku said:
Yes I think so
Then how are elements past Iron created?
 
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haruspex said:
Then how are elements past Iron created?
Ah I see. In star the formation of heavier element than iron is through fusion. So the answer should be C.

Thank you very much
 
Sorry haruspex, my friend said the answer to this question is D (based on the answer key)
 
songoku said:
Sorry haruspex, my friend said the answer to this question is D (based on the answer key)
I didn't study D. Yes, that is wrong, but I had not interpreted the question as implying only one was wrong. I believe the correct answer is C and D.
 
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I am sorry for late reply

Why is option D wrong? I think nuclei in region R will be more likely to undergo fission and fission reaction also releases energy

Thanks
 
songoku said:
I am sorry for late reply

Why is option D wrong? I think nuclei in region R will be more likely to undergo fission and fission reaction also releases energy

Thanks
Sorry, I have no idea why I wrote that. Must have misread something.
 
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  • #10
haruspex said:
Sorry, I have no idea why I wrote that. Must have misread something.
So in your opinion C is the answer? Thanks
 
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songoku said:
So in your opinion C is the answer? Thanks
Yes.
 
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  • #12
haruspex said:
Yes.
Thank you very much haruspex
 

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