Question

The ratio of the orders of the spacings of nuclear energy levels and atomic energy levels is:

• A. \( 10^3 \)
• B. \( 10^6 \)
• C. \( 10^9 \)
• D. \( 10^{12} \)

Hint:

Nuclear energy levels are much more spaced than atomic ones, leading to an approximate ratio of: \[ E_{\text{nuclear}} : E_{\text{atomic}} \approx 10^9 \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Energy Levels Energy levels exist in both atomic and nuclear systems: - Atomic energy levels arise from electronic transitions. - Nuclear energy levels arise from nucleon (proton/neutron) transitions. Step 2: Comparing Orders of Magnitude Typical spacing: - Atomic energy levels: \( \approx \) few eV. - Nuclear energy levels: \( \approx \) MeV. Since \( 1 \) MeV \( \approx 10^6 \) eV, the ratio between nuclear and atomic energy spacing is: \[ \approx 10^9 \] Conclusion Thus, the correct answer is: \[ 10^9 \]