IB Physics HL E.3.15 Neutron-proton ratio Question Bank
Practise IB Physics HL E.3.15 by applying neutron-proton ratio concepts to exam-style physics questions.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Course
- Physics HL
- Level
- HL
Exam points
- identify the relevant physical quantity, model or diagram
- apply the correct equation and units to the evidence
- justify the result using conservation laws, fields or energy relationships
E.3.15 (HL)—Neutron-proton ratio question 1
[Maximum number: 3]
This question is about nuclear reactions.
The daughter nuclei of U-235 undergo radioactive decay until eventually a stable isotope of lead is reached.
Explain why the nuclei of U-235 are unstable whereas the nuclei of the lead are stable.
protons repel/break nucleus apart;
binding energy/strong force holds nucleus together; neutron excess / n:p ratio is greater in lead therefore overall balance of forces is more attractive / (magnitude of) binding energy per nucleon is greater in lead / binding energy per nucleon more negative in lead than uranium;
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