Unpacking Nuclear Fission: Understanding Binding Energy

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the concept of nuclear fission, specifically focusing on binding energy, its implications during the fission process, and the differences in binding energy between heavy and middle mass nuclei. Participants explore theoretical aspects and seek clarification on these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that during nuclear fission, a heavy nucleus with low binding energy splits into two middle mass nuclei with high binding energy, raising questions about the source of the energy released.
  • Others argue that binding energy in nuclei is always negative, suggesting that a high binding energy corresponds to a low-energy state.
  • There is a contention regarding the definition of binding energy, with some asserting it is always positive while others maintain it is negative, depending on the context of potential energy definitions.
  • One participant expresses confusion about the initial explanation and requests a more detailed clarification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the definitions and implications of binding energy, with multiple competing views remaining on whether binding energy is positive or negative and how this relates to nuclear stability.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved definitions regarding binding energy and potential energy, as well as differing interpretations of the implications of these definitions in the context of nuclear fission.

Kaushik96
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During nuclear fission a heavy nucleus of low binding energy splits into two middle mass nuclei with high binding energy ! From where does this energy suddenly come from ??

And why is the binding energy of heavy nuclei lesser than that of middle mass nuclei ??
 
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Kaushik96 said:
During nuclear fission a heavy nucleus of low binding energy splits into two middle mass nuclei with high binding energy ! From where does this energy suddenly come from ??
Binding energy in nuclei is always negative. A high binding energy corresponds to a low-energy state.

And why is the binding energy of heavy nuclei lesser than that of middle mass nuclei ??
Electromagnetic repulsion of the protons (positive contribution to binding energy) grows quicker than the negative contribution from the strong interaction.
 


mfb said:
Binding energy in nuclei is always negative.

No, the potential energy in nuclei, with the zero defined at infinite nucleon separation, is always negative. Being defined as the energy you have to supply to break up an atom, binding energy in nuclei is always positive.
 


Ok, you are right, I used the wrong word.
 


mfb said:
Binding energy in nuclei is always negative. A high binding energy corresponds to a low-energy state.

I was not able to understand the first part ! Could you explain in detail ??
 


Binding energy in nuclei is always positive = potential energy of a nucleus is always negative.
If you combine x protons and y neutrons to a (possible) nucleus, energy is released - otherwise, the nucleus would not be a bound state at all.
 

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