Question 48
Radioactivity and Nuclear PhysicsIn a nuclear fusion process, four protons each of mass Mp were fused to produce a nucleus X of mass Mx. Which of the following equations is CORRECT?
- A.4Mp > Mx
- B.4Mp = Mx
- C.4Mp < Mx
- D.Mp = Mx
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A (4Mp > Mx)
Explanation
Fusion releases energy, which comes from a loss of mass, so the product is lighter than the four protons together.