Question

The atomic mass of \(^{6}C^{12}\) is 12.000000 u and that of \({}^{6}C^{13}\) is 13.003354 u. The required energy to remove a neutron from \({}^{6}C^{13}\), if the mass of the neutron is 1.008665 u, will be:

• A. 62.5 MeV
• B. 6.25 MeV
• C. 4.95 MeV
• D. 49.5 MeV

Hint:

Mass defect is the difference between the expected and actual nuclear mass, and it accounts for the nuclear binding energy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Mass defect: \[ \Delta m = (12.000000 + 1.008665) - 13.003354 \] \[ = 0.00531 u \] Energy required: \[ E = \Delta m \times 931.5 \] \[ = 0.00531 \times 931.5 \] \[ = 4.95 { MeV} \] Thus, the correct answer is \( 4.95 \) MeV.