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E = mc2 - mass energy conversion

Q2.

(a) In the context of an atomic nucleus,

(i) state what is meant by binding energy, and explain how it arises,

(ii) state what is meant by mass difference,

(iii) state the relationship between binding energy and mass difference.

(4 marks MAX)

(b) Calculate the average binding energy per nucleon, in MeV nucleon–1, of the nucleus.

mass of atom = 63.92915 u

mass of proton = 1.00728 u

mass of neutron = 1.00867 u

(5 marks)

(c) Why would you expect the zinc nucleus to be very stable?

(1 marks)

(Total 10 marks)