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A : Exothermic reactions are possible wh...

A : Exothermic reactions are possible when two light nuclei fuse or when a heavy nucleus undergoes fission into intermediate mass nuclei.
R: The nature of nuclear binding energy curve is such that it rises lighter nuclei and slightly decreasing for heavier nuclei.

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To analyze the given assertion and reason, we will break down the concepts involved in nuclear reactions, specifically fusion and fission, and the binding energy curve. ### Step-by-Step Solution: 1. **Understanding the Assertion (A)**: - The assertion states that exothermic reactions occur when two light nuclei fuse or when a heavy nucleus undergoes fission into intermediate mass nuclei. - **Fusion of Light Nuclei**: When light nuclei (like hydrogen isotopes) fuse, they form a heavier nucleus (like helium) and release energy. This is because the binding energy per nucleon increases, leading to a more stable nucleus. - **Fission of Heavy Nuclei**: When a heavy nucleus (like uranium) undergoes fission, it splits into lighter nuclei and releases energy. This also occurs because the resulting intermediate mass nuclei are more stable than the original heavy nucleus. 2. **Understanding the Reason (R)**: - The reason states that the nature of the nuclear binding energy curve rises for lighter nuclei and slightly decreases for heavier nuclei. - **Binding Energy Curve**: The binding energy per nucleon increases for lighter nuclei as they fuse (indicating stability), reaches a peak around iron (the most stable nucleus), and then decreases for heavier nuclei. This means that fission of heavy nuclei can also release energy as they move towards a more stable configuration. 3. **Conclusion**: - Both the assertion and the reason are correct. Exothermic reactions can occur during the fusion of light nuclei and the fission of heavy nuclei. The behavior of the binding energy curve supports this understanding. ### Final Answer: Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct.
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