Question
The isotope has 8 protons, 8 neutrons and 8 electrons while has 4 protons 4 neutrons and 4 electrons. Yet the ratio of their atomic masses is not exactly same. Why?
Solution
The binding energy does not only depend upon the neutron to proton ratio but, it also varies with increase in mass number.
In the present case, the binding energy per nucleon increases with the increase in the mass number for lighter nuclei.
In the present case, the binding energy per nucleon increases with the increase in the mass number for lighter nuclei.
