What is the Q value for the symmetric fission of 236U?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the Q value for the symmetric fission of the isotope 236U, specifically considering the reaction that produces two identical daughter nuclei, 118Ru.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the meaning of symmetric fission and its implications for calculating the Q value. There are attempts to clarify the calculation process and the significance of binding energies in determining the Q value.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the calculation of binding energies and their role in finding the Q value. There is an ongoing exploration of the differences in Q values obtained for different fission products, indicating a productive dialogue about the underlying concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the calculation of binding energies and the resulting Q values for different fission scenarios. There is a mention of specific values calculated, but no consensus on the reasons for discrepancies is reached.

matt222
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Homework Statement



what is the Q value for the symmetric fission of 236U?

Homework Equations



M(Z,A)=Zmp+Nmn-B

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't understand the question by saying symmetric fission, is it mean we have the reaction which is

236U=118Ru+118Ru
so the Q from he reaction will be obtained from this what I did or
 
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That's what it means. The daughter fragments are identical.
 


But how the Q value for the symmetric fission of U236 calculated? I calculated from what the question said two doughters 118Ru so I found the answer which is about 158MeV, Now if we talk about the Q value for fission to 96Sr and 140Xe I got Q about 184MeV, Why we have difference now in the both cases I really couldn't understand to it.
 


The binding energy of the parent nucleus, BE1, is greater than the sum of the binding energies of the daughters, BE2+BE2. The difference is Q. You need to calculate some binding energies here, namely BE1 and BE2 and then subtract.
 

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