Consider the binding energy of two stable nuclei, one with 60 nucleons and one with 200 nucleons. a. Is the total binding energy of the nucleus with 200 nucleons more than, less than, or equal to the total binding energy of the nucleus with 60 nucleons. Justify your reasoning.

The total binding energy of the nucleus with 200 nucleons more than the total binding energy of the nucleus with 60 nucleons

Explanation:

Binding energy can be given by the formula:

Binding energy = Binding energy per nucleon * Number of nucleons

This means that if the binding energy per nucleon = x MeV

Where x is a positive real number

The nucleus with 60 nucleons will have Binding energy = 60x MeV

The nucleus with 200 nucleons will have binding energy = 200x MeV

For a + ve x, 200x > 60x