Binding energy per nucleon versus mass number curve for nuclei is shown in the figure. $W$ , $X$ , $Y$ and $Z$ are four nuclei indicated on the curve. The process that would release energy is

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Binding energy per nucleon versus mass number curve for nuclei is shown in the figure. W , X , Y and Z are four nuclei indicated on the curve. The process that would release energy is

TestHub · Accepted Answer

Energy is released in a process when total binding energy of the nucleus (= binding energy per nucleon x number of nucleons) is increased or we can say when total binding energy of products is more than the reactants.

In the reaction $W \to 2 Y$

The binding energy of reactants = $120 x 7 . 5 = 900 MeV$
and binding energy of products = $2 (60 x 8 . 5) = 1020 MeV$
and we can see $1020 MeV > 900 MeV$ .

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