Question:

The mass number of a nucleus is

Updated On: Jun 23, 2024
  • always less than its atomic number
  • always more than its atomic number
  • sometimes equal to its atomic number
  • sometimes less than and sometimes more than its atomic number
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

$A \geq Z$ [Equality sign $\rightarrow$ hydrogen nuclei ]
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Concepts Used:

Nuclear Physics

Nuclear physics is the field of physics that studies atomic nuclei and their constituents and interactions, in addition to the study of other forms of nuclear matter. Nuclear physics should not be confused with atomic physics, which studies the atom as a whole, including its electrons

Radius of Nucleus

‘R’ represents the radius of the nucleus. R = RoA1/3

Where,

  • Ro is the proportionality constant
  • A is the mass number of the element

Total Number of Protons and Neutrons in a Nucleus

The mass number (A), also known as the nucleon number, is the total number of neutrons and protons in a nucleus.

A = Z + N

Where, N is the neutron number, A is the mass number, Z is the proton number

Mass Defect

Mass defect is the difference between the sum of masses of the nucleons (neutrons + protons) constituting a nucleus and the rest mass of the nucleus and is given as:

Δm = Zmp + (A - Z) mn - M

Where Z = atomic number, A = mass number, mp = mass of 1 proton, mn = mass of 1 neutron and M = mass of nucleus.