Question

If the total binding energies of \( ^{235}U \) and \( ^{233}U \) nuclei are 2.22, 28.3, 392 and 1786 MeV respectively, identify the most stable nucleus of the following.

• A. \( ^{56}Fe \)
• B. \( ^{1}H \)
• C. \( ^{235}U \)
• D. \( ^{4}He \)

Hint:

The most stable nucleus corresponds to the one with the highest binding energy per nucleon.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Binding energy per nucleon.
The stability of a nucleus is generally given by its binding energy per nucleon. The nucleus with the highest binding energy per nucleon is the most stable. The binding energy per nucleon for \( ^{56}Fe \) is the highest among the options, making it the most stable nucleus.
Thus, the correct answer is (1).