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Mass, Energy
& Binding Energy
Introduction
Mass and energy are closely related through Einstein's famous equation, E=mc^2. When a nucleus is formed, a small amount of mass is converted into binding energy, which holds the nucleus together. Understanding mass defect and binding energy helps explain nuclear stability, radioactive decay and the energy released during nuclear reactions.
AQA A Level Physics Specification: 3.8.7 Mass, Energy and Binding Energy
What You Need to Know
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State the relationship between mass and energy.
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Define mass defect as the difference between the total mass of the separate nucleons and the mass of the nucleus.
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Explain that binding energy is the energy required to separate a nucleus completely into its individual nucleons.
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Calculate mass defect using atomic masses.
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Calculate binding energy from mass defect.
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Calculate binding energy per nucleon.
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Explain why binding energy per nucleon is a measure of nuclear stability.
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Apply calculations involving mass defect, binding energy and binding energy per nucleon.
Downloadable Topic Pack
Mass, Energy and Binding Energy Topic Pack Exam Questions and Answers
This downloadable resource contains carefully selected AQA A Level Physics exam questions covering mass defect, binding energy, binding energy per nucleon and nuclear stability, together with fully worked solutions designed to strengthen understanding and improve exam performance.
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