A nucleus has mass number \(A_1\) and volume \(V_1\). Another nucleus has mass number \(A_2\) and volume \(V_2\). If the relation between the mass numbers is \(A_2 = 3 A_1\), find \(\frac{V_1}{V_2}\).
Show Hint
For nuclei, \(V \propto A\) since \(V \propto R^3\) and \(R \propto A^{1/3}\). Volume ratios follow mass number ratios.
Step 1: Recall relation between mass number and volume of nucleus.
\[
V \propto A
\]
Volume of nucleus is proportional to its mass number since radius \(R \propto A^{1/3}\) and \(V \propto R^3\).
Step 2: Express volumes in terms of mass numbers.
\[
V_1 \propto A_1, \quad V_2 \propto A_2
\]
Step 3: Form the ratio.
\[
\frac{V_1}{V_2} = \frac{A_1}{A_2}
\]