The greatest binding energy per nucleon occurs for nuclides with masses near that of:
A) helium
B) sodium
C) iron
D) mercury
E) uranium

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The greatest binding energy per nucleon occurs for nuclides with masses near that of iron, making it the most stable element in terms of nuclear binding energy. This is why both fusion processes (in lighter elements) and fission processes (in heavier elements) release energy, as they move towards elements with mass numbers closer to iron.

The Greatest Binding Energy Per Nucleon Occurs for Nuclides with Masses