Which of the following statements are correct?

Options

A. Nuclei with small mass number and atomic number are more likely to undergo fusion than fission.
B. Nuclei having a small binding energy per nucleon are more likely to undergo fusion than fision.
C. Nuclei having large binding energy per nucleon are more likey to undergo fusion than fission.
D. Nuclei with large atomic number are more likely to undergo fusion than fission.

Answer

To determine which statements about nuclear fusion and fission are correct, let's analyze the concepts of binding energy, atomic mass, and the behavior of nuclei based on these properties.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Fusion and Fission**:
- Fusion is the process where two light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
- Fission is the process where a heavy nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei, also releasing energy.

2. **Binding Energy per Nucleon**:
- The binding energy per nucleon is a measure of the stability of a nucleus. Higher binding energy per nucleon indicates a more stable nucleus.
- Nuclei with small mass numbers (light nuclei) tend to have lower binding energy per nucleon and are more likely to undergo fusion to increase their stability.

3. **Analyzing the Statements**:
- **Statement A**: "Nuclei with small mass number and atomic number are more likely to undergo fusion than fission."
- This statement is **correct** because light nuclei tend to fuse to form heavier nuclei, increasing their stability.

- **Statement B**: "Nuclei having small binding energy per nucleon are more likely to undergo fusion than fission."
- This statement is **partially correct**. While it is true that nuclei with small binding energy per nucleon may undergo fusion, they can also undergo fission under certain conditions. Therefore, this statement lacks completeness and is not entirely correct.

- **Statement C**: "Nuclei having large binding energy per nucleon are more likely to undergo fusion than fission."
- This statement is **incorrect**. Nuclei with high binding energy are stable and do not tend to undergo either fusion or fission easily.

- **Statement D**: "Nuclei with large atomic numbers are more likely to undergo fusion than fission."
- This statement is **incorrect**. Heavy nuclei (large atomic numbers) are more likely to undergo fission rather than fusion, as they are already heavy and splitting into lighter nuclei is more favorable.

4. **Conclusion**:
- The only correct statement is **Statement A**.
- Statement B is partially correct but not complete enough to be considered fully correct.
- Statements C and D are incorrect.

### Summary of Correct Statements:
- **Correct**: Statement A
- **Partially Correct**: Statement B
- **Incorrect**: Statements C and D