The energy released if hydrogen atoms are combined to form ⁴₂ He is __________ MeV. (Take binding energies per nucleon of ²₁ H and ⁴₂ He as 1.1 MeV and 7.2 MeV, respectively)

Step-by-step solution

The fusion reaction is given by: 2 ²₁ H ⁴₂ He Binding energy of one ²₁ H nucleus = 2 1.1 = 2.2 MeV Total initial binding energy = 2 2.2 = 4.4 MeV Binding energy of ⁴₂ He nucleus = 4 7.2 = 28.8 MeV Energy released E = Final binding energy - Initial binding energy E = 28.8 - 4.4 = 24.4 MeV Answer: 24.4