Physics

Problem

The average binding energy per nucleon of deuteron

(^{2}_{1}\text{H})

1.1\,\text{MeV}

, while that of the helium-4 nucleus

(^{4}_{2}\text{He})

7.0\,\text{MeV}

. Two deuterons combine to form one helium-4 nucleus (ignore any other particles). Estimate the energy released in this fusion reaction. a)

11.8\,\text{MeV}

9.6\,\text{MeV}

23.6\,\text{MeV}

25.8\,\text{MeV}