A fusion reaction releases energy because the binding energy of the resulting nucleus

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The binding energy of the resulting nucleus in a fusion reaction is greater than the binding energy of the original nuclei, which is why energy is released. This is because when smaller nuclei fuse to form a larger nucleus, the mass of the resulting nucleus is slightly less than the sum of the original masses. This mass difference is converted into energy according to Einstein's equation E=mc^2, indicating a release of energy due to a higher binding energy per nucleon in the product nucleus.

A Fusion Reaction Releases Energy Because the Binding Energy of the Resulting