Binding Energy



Binding energy per nucleon as function of the nuclear mass
Click on image for full size (32K JPEG)
Image courtesy of Contemporary Physics Education Project (CPEP)

A plot of the binding energy per nucleon vs. atomic mass shows a peak atomic number 56 (Iron). Elements with atomic mass less then 56 release energy if formed as a result of a fusion reaction. Above this threshold in order to release energy a fission reaction must occur.


This material is considered too complex to be written about at an intermediate or beginner level, so all levels appear in the advanced form.

Binding Energy



Binding energy per nucleon as function of the nuclear mass
Click on image for full size (32K JPEG)
Image courtesy of Contemporary Physics Education Project (CPEP)

A plot of the binding energy per nucleon vs. atomic mass shows a peak atomic number 56 (Iron). Elements with atomic mass less then 56 release energy if formed as a result of a fusion reaction. Above this threshold in order to release energy a fission reaction must occur.


This material is considered too complex to be written about at an intermediate or beginner level, so all levels appear in the advanced form.

Binding Energy



Binding energy per nucleon as function of the nuclear mass
Click on image for full size (32K JPEG)
Image courtesy of Contemporary Physics Education Project (CPEP)

A plot of the binding energy per nucleon vs. atomic mass shows a peak atomic number 56 (Iron). Elements with atomic mass less then 56 release energy if formed as a result of a fusion reaction. Above this threshold in order to release energy a fission reaction must occur.



Last modified prior to September, 2000 by the Windows Team

The source of this material is Windows to the Universe, at http://www.windows.ucar.edu/ at the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR). © The Regents of the University of Michigan. Windows to the Universe® is a registered trademark of UCAR. All Rights Reserved. Site policies and disclaimer