The total binding energies of the nuclei He-4, Li-7, C-12, and N-14 are 28 MeV, 52 MeV, 90 MeV, and 98 MeV respectively. Which nucleus is the most stable?

He-4
Li-7
C-12
N-14

Correct answer: C-12

Solution

Binding energy per nucleon: He-4: 28/4 = 7.0 MeV, Li-7: 52/7 = 7.43 MeV, C-12: 90/12 = 7.5 MeV, N-14: 98/14 = 7.0 MeV. C-12 has the highest binding energy per nucleon (7.5 MeV) and is therefore the most stable.

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