The binding energy per nucleon in deuterium and helium nuclei are 1.1 MeV and 7.0 MeV, respectively. When two deuterium nuclei fuse to form a helium nucleus the energy released in the fusion is:

Options

(a) 30.2 MeV
(b) 23.6 MeV
(c) 2.2 MeV
(d) 28.0 MeV

Correct Answer:

23.6 MeV

Explanation:

Binding energy of two ₁H² nuclei = 2 (1.1 x 2) = 4.4 meV
Binding energy of one ₂He⁴ nucleus = 4 x 7.0 = 28 MeV
Energy released = 28 – 4.4 = 23.6 MeV