Answer: Gamma.
- A Alpha
- B Beta
- C Gamma
- D All equal
Correct answer: C. Gamma
Explanation: Gamma radiation is most penetrating (needs thick lead or concrete to stop). Alpha is least penetrating (stopped by paper).
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.