Question:

The correct statement of the following is

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Remember: \[ Q=K_f-K_i \] for nuclear reactions. Also,

• Isotopes \(\rightarrow\) same atomic number.

• Isotones \(\rightarrow\) same number of neutrons.

• Fission \(\rightarrow\) heavy nucleus splits.

• Fusion \(\rightarrow\) light nuclei combine.
Updated On: Jun 26, 2026
  • The \(Q\)-value of a nuclear process is the difference between final and initial kinetic energies.
  • The nuclear mass is always higher than the total mass of its constituents.
  • Nuclides with same number of neutrons in the nucleus are known as isotopes.
  • In nuclear fusion, a heavy nucleus breaks into two smaller fragments.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Examine Option (1).
The \(Q\)-value of a nuclear reaction is defined as the net energy released or absorbed during the reaction. It is equal to the difference between the total final kinetic energy and the total initial kinetic energy.
Mathematically, \[ Q=K_f-K_i \] where \[ K_f=\text{final kinetic energy} \] and \[ K_i=\text{initial kinetic energy}. \] Therefore, Option (1) is correct.

Step 2: Examine Option (2).
The nuclear mass is actually less than the sum of the masses of its constituent protons and neutrons.
The difference is called the mass defect and is responsible for the binding energy of the nucleus.
Thus, \[ M_{\text{nucleus}} \lt \sum M_{\text{constituents}} \] Hence, Option (2) is incorrect.

Step 3: Examine Option (3).
Nuclides having the same number of neutrons are called

isotones.
Isotopes are nuclei having the same atomic number \(Z\) but different mass numbers \(A\).
Therefore, Option (3) is incorrect.

Step 4: Examine Option (4).
The breaking of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei is called

nuclear fission.
Nuclear fusion is the process in which two light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.
Hence, Option (4) is incorrect.

Step 5: Final conclusion.
Only Option (1) is correct. Therefore, \[ \boxed{\text{The }Q\text{-value of a nuclear process is the difference between final and initial kinetic energies.}} \]
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