Exam-style question
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Which statement best describes the relationship between mass defect and binding energy in nuclear reactions?.
- A.Larger mass defect means lower binding energy.
- B.Larger mass defect means higher binding energy.
- C.Mass defect is unrelated to binding energy.
- D.Binding energy is the same as mass defect.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Larger mass defect means higher binding energy.
Explanation
Why this works
Formula: E = Δm c². Substitution: Δm = mass defect.
Working: Binding energy = Δm c². Answer: energy released.
Units/conclusion: J, energy released. Therefore a larger mass defect corresponds to a higher binding energy.
Common mistake
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