The binding energy per nucleon has a maximum value of about 8.7 MeV/nucleon for

Question

The binding energy per nucleon has a maximum value of about 8.7 MeV/nucleon for a nucleus with a nucleon number of about A = 60. For nucleon numbers greater or smaller than about 60, the binding energy per nucleon is less than the maximum value. Consider the following two nuclear fusion reactions.

Which of these reactions is a potentially energy-producing reaction? Or are both of them potentially energy-producing? Or is neither of them potentially energy-producing?

I tried neither but it was worng it is I only IIonly or both please help

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Which of these reactions is a potentially energy-producing reaction? Or are both of them potentially energy-producing? Or is neither of them potentially energy-producing?

I tried neither but it was worng it is I only IIonly or both please help

Explanation / Answer

Reaction I is potentially energy producing.

It involves fusion of two lighter nuclei to yield a large nuclei with maximum binding energy (A=60). The formation of a stable nuclei will release energy. Fusion of a nuclei with large binding energy (Reaction II) will not release energy, in fact it will need energy as it requires disturbing stable nuclear arrangements.

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