IB Physics HL E 3 3 Binding Energy Curve Questions

Interpret the HL binding-energy-per-nucleon curve to compare nuclear stability and explain energy release in fission and fusion.

Exam points

identify the most stable nuclei from the maximum binding energy per nucleon on the binding-energy curve
compare reactants and products in fission or fusion to determine whether binding energy per nucleon and released energy increase
use the curve to order nuclei by stability and explain why movement toward the peak can release nuclear energy

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Study E.3.3—Binding energy curve conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

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The binding energy of the stable nuclide ${ }_{54}^{131} \mathrm{Xe}$ is 1.105 GeV .

$\quad{ }_{54}^{133} \mathrm{Xe}$ and ${ }_{54}^{131} \mathrm{Xe}$ are two isotopes of xenon.

$\quad{ }_{54}^{133} \mathrm{Xe}$ is radioactive. Suggest how the binding energy per nucleon for ${ }_{54}^{131} \mathrm{Xe}$ compares with that of ${ }_{54}^{133} \mathrm{Xe}$ .

binding energy per nucleon is a measure of stability so ${ }_{54}^{131} \mathrm{Xe}$ has the greater binding
energy per nucleon

Correct mention of stability required to award the mark.

Marking guidance:

Allow opposite comment for Xe 133.

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IB Physics HL E 3 3 Binding Energy Curve Questions question 1