Question

question 7 of 25
which nucleus would be least likely to undergo radioactive decay?
a. a nucleus that has the lowest total binding energy
b. a nucleus that has the highest binding energy per nucleon
c. a nucleus that has the lowest binding energy per nucleon
d. a nucleus that has the highest total binding energy

Explanation:

The stability of a nucleus is related to the binding - energy per nucleon. A nucleus with a higher binding energy per nucleon is more stable and less likely to undergo radioactive decay. The binding energy per nucleon represents the average energy required to remove a nucleon from the nucleus. Higher values mean the nucleons are more tightly bound together.

Answer:

B. A nucleus that has the highest binding energy per nucleon