Question

Two nuclei with lower binding energy per nucleon form a nucleus with more binding energy per nucleon. (i) What type of nuclear reaction is it?

Hint:

Fusion reactions occur when two lighter nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process.

Answer 1

Nuclear fusion is the process where two nuclei with a lower binding energy per nucleon merge to create a nucleus with a higher binding energy per nucleon.

1. Explanation of Nuclear Fusion:

During nuclear fusion, two light atomic nuclei, such as hydrogen isotopes like deuterium and tritium, combine to form a heavier nucleus, for example, helium. This process is characterized by the resulting nucleus possessing a greater binding energy per nucleon than the original nuclei, indicating increased nuclear stability post-fusion.

• Binding energy per nucleon quantifies the strength of the bonds holding nucleons (protons and neutrons) within a nucleus. Higher binding energy per nucleon signifies a more stable nucleus.
• In fusion, the binding energy per nucleon increases as the resultant nucleus approaches the optimal binding energy, typically found around iron-56, which exhibits the highest binding energy per nucleon.
• The energy released during fusion powers stars, including the Sun, and is the fundamental principle behind hydrogen bombs and fusion reactors.

2. Rationale for Fusion with Lower Binding Energy Nuclei:

For elements lighter than iron, which have comparatively lower binding energies per nucleon, fusion occurs because the resulting heavier nucleus achieves a higher binding energy per nucleon. This energy release makes the fusion process energetically favorable.

3. Conclusion:

The nuclear reaction involving the formation of a nucleus with greater binding energy per nucleon from two nuclei with lower binding energy per nucleon is termed nuclear fusion.