Question

Which of the following figures correctly represents the shape of the curve of binding energy per nucleon as a function of mass number?

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

The peak in the binding energy curve around \( A = 56 \) (Iron-56) explains why nuclear fission and fusion release energy—lighter elements fuse to move towards iron, and heavier elements split to move towards iron.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The binding energy per nucleon (\(\text{B.E.}/A\)) curve as a function of mass number \( A \) follows a characteristic trend:
It rises steeply for light nuclei.
It reaches a maximum around \( A \approx 56 \) (Iron-56, the most stable nucleus).
It then slowly decreases for heavier nuclei.
The correct representation is Figure (B), which shows the binding energy per nucleon increasing and then flattening out around \( A = 56 \), consistent with experimental data. Thus, the correct answer is (2).