1. Find the mass defect (Δm). 2. Use $BE = Delta m c^2$ or $BE(MeV) = ext{Mass Defect} * 931.5 ext{ MeV/u}$. 3. Calculate Average Binding Energy: $Avg BE = frac{BE}{A}$.

Calculate the mass defect ($Delta m$) by finding the difference between the mass of the reactants and the mass of the products.

The concept that mass and energy are interchangeable, as described by $E = Delta mc^2$.

The energy required to separate a system (typically a nucleus) into its individual particles.

The difference between the mass of individual nucleons and the mass of the nucleus.

The process where a heavy, unstable nucleus splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing energy.

The process where two light nuclei combine to form a heavier, more stable nucleus, releasing energy.

A unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights, equal to 1.6605 x 10⁻²⁷ kg.

Fission: Splitting of heavy nuclei, large energy release, often radioactive byproducts. | Fusion: Combining of light nuclei, very large energy release, generally not radioactive byproducts.

Fission: Releases a large amount of energy. | Fusion: Releases an even larger amount of energy than fission.

Fission: Heavy, unstable nuclei. | Fusion: Light nuclei.

Fission: Often radioactive. | Fusion: Generally not radioactive.