Answer: 7.1 MeV.
- A 28.3 MeV
- B 4.7 MeV
- C 7.1 MeV
- D 8.8 MeV
Correct answer: C. 7.1 MeV
Explanation: Total binding energy = 0.0304 × 931.5 ≈ 28.3 MeV; per nucleon = 28.3/4 ≈ 7.1 MeV.
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.