The curve of binding energy is a graph that plots against the atomic mass number (
The shape of the curve dictates how we can extract energy from the atom: The curve of binding energy
. Nuclei in this "iron peak" (notably and Nickel-62 ) are the most tightly bound and stable in the universe. The curve of binding energy is a graph
Light nuclei move "up" the curve to become more stable by fusing together. This process powers stars like our Sun. The curve of binding energy
), indicating that nuclear forces are "saturated" in mid-sized nuclei.
For very light elements like Hydrogen, the binding energy is low but increases sharply as mass number increases. This steep gradient explains why nuclear fusion (combining light nuclei) releases a massive amount of energy.