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The binding energy of a nucleus is always negative. Is this true or false?

User Dlaor
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1 Answer

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18 votes

The binding energy of a nucleus is the energy required to split a nucleus into its component parts. Thus, in order to split into components, a nucleus must gain energy.

The gaining of energy is always represented by a positive sign.

Thus the binding energy of a stable nucleus is always positive.

Therefore the given statement is false.

User Foggzie
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