Question

    In a nuclear reaction, the product nucleus has higher

    binding energy per nucleon than the reactants. Which of the following is correct?
    A Q-value is zero Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B The process absorbs energy Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C The process releases energy Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D Mass of the product is more than that of reactants Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    If the binding energy per nucleon of the product nucleus is higher than that of the reactants, it means the product is more stable. The total binding energy increases, and the mass of the final nucleus is less than the mass of the initial system. This mass difference is released as energy, known as the Q-value of the reaction. Therefore, such a process is exothermic, and energy is released.

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