It is often possible to use the atomic masses when calculating the binding energy of a nucleus. The reason for this is
A) the electron masses do not cancel.
B) the electron masses cancel.
C) tables of nuclear masses are usually not available.
D) the mass of the electron can usually be neglected when compared to the mass of the neutron.
E) the atomic masses are the same as the nuclear masses.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When calculating the binding energy of a nucleus, the atomic masses are often used because the electron masses cancel out in the equation for calculating the mass defect. This makes the calculation simpler and more accurate.

It Is Often Possible to Use the Atomic Masses When