The binding energy per nucleon for the parent nucleus is E1 and that for the daughter nuclei is E2.

Question

A nucleus of mass M + Δm is at rest and, decays into two daughter nuclei of equal mass M/2 each. Speed, of light is c.

The binding energy per nucleon for the parent nucleus is E₁ and that for the daughter nuclei is E₂. Then

(a) E₂ = 2E₁ 

(b) E₁ > E₂ 

(c) E₂ > E₁ 

(d) E₁ = 2E₂

Answer 1

Correct Option (c) E₂ > E₁ 

Explanation:

After decay, the daughter nuclei will be more stable, hence binding energy per nucleon will be more than that of their parent nucleus.