Question

Assume that the nuclear binding energy per nucleon $(B/A)$
versus mass number (A) is as shown in the figure. Use this plot to choose the correct choice(s) given below.

• A. Fusion of two nuclei with mass numbers lying in the
  range of 1 < A < 50 will release energy.
• B. Fusion of two nuclei with mass numbers lying in the
  range of 51 < A < 100 will release energy.
• C. Fission of a nucleus lying in the mass range of
  100 < A < 200 will release energy when broken into two
  equal fragments.
• D. Fission of a nucleus lying in the mass range of
  200 < A < 260 will release energy when broken into two
  equal fragments.

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (D)

In fusion, two or more lighter nuclei combine to make a
comparatively heavier nucleus.
In fission, a heavy nucleus breaks into two or more
comparatively lighter nuclei.
Further, energy will be released in a nuclear process if total
binding energy increases.
$\therefore$ Correct options are (b) and (d).