(a) Draw a graph showing the variation of binding energy per nucleon as a function of mass number A. The binding energy per nucleon for heavy nuclei…

Graph of binding energy per nucleon as a function of mass number A Explanation

Mass number ( \(\displaystyle \mathrm{A}\) )

Explanation:-Nuclear forces are short range & show saturation, while the electrostatic force are neither short range nor show any saturation. Hence for heavier nuclei \(\displaystyle (\mathrm{A}>170)\) the electrostatic force of repulsion becomes predominant, decreasing the binding energy per nucleon.

Alternatively:-As the size of the nucleus increases, the nucleus becomes unstable.