Question:

The difference between the rest mass of the nucleus and the sum of the masses of the nucleons composing a nucleus is known as:

Show Hint

The mass defect is the difference between the mass of a nucleus and the sum of its individual nucleons, and it is related to the binding energy of the nucleus.
Updated On: Apr 28, 2026
  • Binding energy
  • Mass defect
  • Nuclear energy
  • Isotopic mass
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Meaning of mass defect
In a nucleus, the total mass of protons and neutrons when separated is greater than the actual mass of the nucleus.

Step 2: Definition
The difference between the sum of the masses of individual nucleons and the actual mass of the nucleus is called the mass defect.

Step 3: Physical significance
This missing mass is converted into binding energy that holds the nucleus together.

Final Answer:
Thus, the difference is known as the mass defect.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0