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As the number of nucleons in a nucleus increases, how does the binding energy per nucleon change?

1. It rises steadily as the mass number increases
2. It falls steadily as the mass number increases
3. It first falls and then rises as the mass number increases
4. It first rises and then falls as the mass number increases

Correct answer: It first rises and then falls as the mass number increases

Solution

Binding energy per nucleon increases with mass number up to a maximum near iron (A ~ 56), then gradually decreases for heavier nuclei; it first rises and then falls.

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