technician said:A He nucleus contains 2 protons and 2 neutrons. Your calculation of Δm is perfectly correct (0.02928u) but you need to convert u into kg. (1u = 1.66x10^-27kg)
Then use that mass in E = mc^2 to calculate the energy equivalent of this mass defect.
This is the energy holding all of the nucleons (protons and neutrons) in the nucleus.
This is called the BINDING ENERGY OF THE NUCLEUS.
Can you see how to get the BINDING ENERGY OF A NUCLEON ?
Binding energy is the amount of energy required to break apart the nucleus of an atom into its constituent parts. It is the energy that holds the nucleus together.
Binding energy is important because it helps to explain the stability of atoms and the process of nuclear reactions. It also plays a crucial role in the understanding of nuclear power and nuclear weapons.
Binding energy is calculated using the famous equation E=mc², where E is the binding energy, m is the mass defect (difference between the mass of the nucleus and the sum of its individual particles), and c is the speed of light. The binding energy is equal to the mass defect multiplied by the speed of light squared.
The binding energy of an atom is affected by the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, as well as the nuclear force that holds these particles together. Generally, larger nuclei have higher binding energies due to the stronger nuclear force.
Knowing the binding energy of an atom is important for understanding the stability and properties of an atom. It also helps in predicting the outcome of nuclear reactions and determining the amount of energy released or absorbed during these reactions. Additionally, the binding energy of an atom is a key factor in nuclear power and nuclear fission processes.