1. Consider the binding energy per nucleon for 16-O and 56-Fe. Would you expect the fusion reactions leading from 16-O to 56-Fe to be exoergic (giving off energy), endoergic (absorbing energy), or neither?

Question

2. Consider the binding energy per nucleon for 56-Fe and 208-Pb. Would you expect the fusion reactions leading from 56-Fe to 208-Pb to be exoergic, endoergic, or neither?

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Answer 1

iron (Fe) has the lowest binding energy per nucleon of any element

fusing light elements (stars, H-bomb) releases energy

fissioning (splitting) heavy elements (nuclear power, A-bomb) also releases energy