Binding Energy Per Nucleon

Key Stage 5

Meaning

The binding energy per nucleon is the average work done per nucleon to separate a nucleus into its constituent parts.

About Binding Energy Per Nucleon

• Binding energy per nucleon is calculated as the total binding energy of the nucleus divided by the mass number.
• Binding energy per nucleon is highest for nuclei with a mass number around 56 (iron).
• Binding energy per nucleon indicates how tightly nucleons are held together in the nucleus.
• Binding energy per nucleon affects the energy released in nuclear reactions.
• The binding energy curve shows the binding energy per nucleon against mass number.
• The binding energy per nucleon is important for understanding nuclear fusion and fission processes.
• Binding energy per nucleon helps explain why certain elements are more stable than others.

Examples

• Iron-56 has the highest binding energy per nucleon, making it the most stable nucleus.
• Uranium-235 has a very low binding energy per nucleon, making it suitable for fission.