Question

Which of the following is true? When a nucleus is separated into its constituent protons and neutrons, the sum of the masses of the individual protons and neutrons is less than the mass of the stable nucleus. When a nucleus is separated into its constituent protons and neutrons, the sum of the masses of the individual protons and neutrons is greater than the mass of the stable nucleus.

Answer 1

Answer: the sum of the masses of the individual protons and neutrons is less than the mass of the stable Nucleus

Explanation:

Nuclei fission involved bonds breaking with the loss of quantity of Energy by the protons and Neutrons

Remember : e=mc2

Therefore, this breakage of bonds result in loss in masses of p and n.

However, in intact Nucleus the energies of the p and n are trapped in the intact bonds holding them together therefore heavier masses than when broken down.