Calculate (in MeV) the total binding energy for 40Ar. Express your answer in mega-electron volts to four significant figures.

299.4 MeV

Explanation:

For 40 Ar

Number of neutrons = 22

Number of protons= 18

Mass of each proton = 1.007277 amu

Mass of each neutron= 1.008665 amu

Total mass of protons= 18 × 1.007277 amu = 18.130986 amu

Total mass of neutrons = 22 × 1.008665 amu = 22.19063 amu

Total mass of protons and neutrons= 18.130986 + 22.19063 = 40.321616 amu

Mass defect = 40.321616 amu - 40 amu

Mass defect = 0.321616 amu

Since 931 is the conversion factor from amu to MeV

Binding energy = 0.321616 amu × 931 = 299.4 MeV

Binding energy = 299.4 MeV

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