Exam-style question
Try this first
Which of the following best explains why nuclear fission releases energy?.
- A.The mass of the fission products is greater than the original nucleus.
- B.The mass of the fission products is less than the original nucleus.
- C.The binding energy per nucleon decreases.
- D.The binding energy per nucleon increases.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The mass of the fission products is less than the original nucleus.
Explanation
Why this works
Formula: E = Δm c². Substitution: Δm = mass of original nucleus – mass of fission products.
Working: E = (mass difference) × (3.00×10⁸ m/s)². Answer: energy released.
Units/conclusion: J, energy released. This shows that the mass defect in fission is converted into energy, explaining why fission releases energy.
Common mistake
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