Chapter 18, Problem 4Q

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The graph of binding energy per nucleon as a function of mass number is

given. Various questions based upon the graph are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Thethermodynamic stability corresponding to a given nucleus is normally represented in terms of the energy released per nucleon. Atoms that are strong enough to hold the nucleus are stable, whereas the atoms in which the binding energy is not strong enough to hold the nucleus are unstable.

To determine: An explanation about the relative half lives of the nuclides on the basis of the given graph.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The graph of binding energy per nucleon as a function of mass number is

given. Various questions based upon the graph are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Thethermodynamic stability corresponding to a given nucleus is normally represented in terms of the energy released per nucleon. Atoms that are strong enough to hold the nucleus are stable, whereas the atoms in which the binding energy is not strong enough to hold the nucleus are unstable.

To determine: The nuclide that is the most thermodynamically stable and the one that is the least thermodynamically stable.

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The graph of binding energy per nucleon as a function of mass number is

given.  Various questions based upon the graph are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Thethermodynamic stability corresponding to a given nucleus is normally represented in terms of the energy released per nucleon. Atoms that are strong enough to hold the nucleus are stable, whereas the atoms in which the binding energy is not strong enough to hold the nucleus are unstable.

To determine: The nucleus that will undergo nuclear fission and the one that will undergo a nuclear fusion.