QuestionJuly 2, 2025

What does the mass defect measure? A. The energy required to make a reaction happen B. The difference in mass between protons and neutrons C. The energy required to form a nucleus from its parts D. The mass of particles created in a nuclear reaction

What does the mass defect measure? A. The energy required to make a reaction happen B. The difference in mass between protons and neutrons C. The energy required to form a nucleus from its parts D. The mass of particles created in a nuclear reaction
What does the mass defect measure?
A. The energy required to make a reaction happen
B. The difference in mass between protons and neutrons
C. The energy required to form a nucleus from its parts
D. The mass of particles created in a nuclear reaction

Solution
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Answer

C. The energy required to form a nucleus from its parts Explanation 1. Identify the concept of mass defect Mass defect refers to the difference between the sum of the masses of individual nucleons (protons and neutrons) and the actual mass of the nucleus. 2. Relate mass defect to energy According to Einstein's equation E=mc^2, this mass difference is equivalent to the binding energy required to hold the nucleus together. 3. Determine correct option The mass defect measures the energy required to form a nucleus from its parts, which corresponds to option C.

Explanation

1. Identify the concept of mass defect<br /> Mass defect refers to the difference between the sum of the masses of individual nucleons (protons and neutrons) and the actual mass of the nucleus.<br /><br />2. Relate mass defect to energy<br /> According to Einstein's equation $E=mc^2$, this mass difference is equivalent to the binding energy required to hold the nucleus together.<br /><br />3. Determine correct option<br /> The mass defect measures the energy required to form a nucleus from its parts, which corresponds to option C.
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