If in a nuclear fusion process, the masses of the fusing nuclei be m₁ and m₂ and the mass of the resultant nucleus be m₃, then
Options
(a) m₃=m₁+m₂
(b) m₃=(m₁-m₂)
(c) m₃<(m₁+m₂)
(d) m₃>(m₁+m₂)
Correct Answer:
m₃<(m₁+m₂)
Explanation:
(m₁+m₂) = m₃ + binding energy equivalent to mass
⇒ (m₁+m₂) > m₃
⇒ m₃<(m₁+m₂)