Exam-style question
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The energy released in a nuclear reaction is directly proportional to:.
- A.the number of protons.
- B.the mass defect.
- C.the charge of the nucleus.
- D.the speed of the particles.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- the mass defect.
Explanation
Why this works
Formula: E = Δm c². Substitution: Δm = mass defect.
Working: E = Δm × (3.00×10⁸ m/s)². Answer: energy released.
Units/conclusion: J, energy released. Thus energy released is directly proportional to the mass defect.
Common mistake
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