Answer: 1/8.
- A 1/3
- B 1/6
- C 1/8
- D 1/16
Correct answer: C. 1/8
Explanation: Fraction remaining = (1/2)³ = 1/8.
Binding energy per nucleon rises sharply for light nuclei, peaks around iron-56 (the most stable nucleus), then slowly declines for heavier nuclei - which is exactly why fusing light nuclei or splitting heavy nuclei both release energy: each moves the products toward this stability peak.
Concept context
Radioactivity, nuclear reactions, fission, fusion, and binding energy.