Nuclear binding energy

Definition

Nuclear binding energy is the energy required to disassemble a nucleus into its constituent protons and neutrons. It is a measure of the stability of a nucleus.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nuclear binding energy can be calculated using Einstein's equation, $E=mc^2$, where $m$ is the mass defect and $c$ is the speed of light.
2. The mass defect is the difference between the mass of an atomic nucleus and the sum of the masses of its individual protons and neutrons.
3. A higher nuclear binding energy indicates a more stable nucleus.
4. Iron-56 has one of the highest binding energies per nucleon, making it exceptionally stable.
5. Binding energy per nucleon typically peaks around iron and nickel in the periodic table.

Review Questions

• What does nuclear binding energy tell us about a nucleus?
• How can nuclear binding energy be calculated using Einstein's equation?
• Why do elements like iron-56 have high nuclear binding energies?

Related terms

Mass Defect: The difference between the mass of an atomic nucleus and the sum of the masses of its individual protons and neutrons.

Einstein’s Equation: $E=mc^2$; relates energy ($E$) to mass ($m$) with $c$ being the speed of light.

Nucleon: A particle found in the nucleus, either a proton or neutron.