Assume that the nuclear binding energy per nucleon `(B//A)` versus mass number `(A)` is as shown in figure. Use this plot to choose the correct choice(s) given below.
(a) Fusion of two nuclei with mass numbers, lying in the range of `1ltAlt50` will release energy.
(b) Fusion of two nuclei with mass numbers lying in the range of `51ltAlt100` will release energy.
(c) Fission of a nucleus lying in the mass range of `100ltAlt200` will release energy when broken into two equal fragements.
(d) Fission of a nucleus lying in the mass range of `200ltAlt260` will release energy when broken into two equal fragments.

Options

A. A & B
B. A & D
C. B & D
D. C & D

Answer

C

Explanation

(1) For `1 lt A lt 50`, on fusion mass number for compound nucleus is less than 100
`rArr` Binding energy per nucleon remains same `rArr` No enregy is released
(2) For ` 51 lt A lt 100`, on fusion mass number for compound nucleus is between 100 & 200
`rArr `Binding energy per nucleon increases
`rArr ` Energy is released
(3) For `100 lt A lt 200`, on fission, the mass number of product nuclei will be between 50 & 100
`rArr` Binding energy pre nucleon decreases
`rArr ` No energy is released
(4) For `200 lt A lt 260`, on fission, the mass number of product nuclei will be between 100 & 130
`rArr ` Binding energy per nucleon increases
`rArr ` Energy is released.