---
title: "Binding Energy — AP Physics 2 Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Binding energy is the energy needed to pull a nucleus apart into separate nucleons, equal to the mass defect times c². Central to E=mc², fusion, and fission on AP Physics 2."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-physics-2-revised/key-terms/binding-energy"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Physics 2"
---

# Binding Energy — AP Physics 2 Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Binding energy refers to the amount of energy required to break apart or separate particles within an atomic nucleus or between atoms in a molecule. It represents the strength of attraction holding particles together.

## Related Study Guides

- [7.3 Energy in Modern Physics](/ap-physics-2-revised/unit-7/energy-modern-physics/study-guide/9bDjwpDJNaFiWYkEHQwz)
- [7.4 Mass-Energy Equivalence](/ap-physics-2-revised/unit-7/mass-energy-equivalence/study-guide/hAdaOfk83RkzUgi0ZD7p)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Nuclear fusion: A process where atomic nuclei combine together, releasing large amounts of binding energy.
- Chemical bond: The force that holds atoms together in molecules through sharing or transferring electrons.
- Ionization Energy: The amount of energy needed to remove an electron from an atom or ion.