Solution
Related Formula
R = R₀ A1/3 [cite: 667]
ρ = MassVolume = (mₙ A)/((4)/(3)π R³) [cite: 664]
Core Logic
Substituting the expression for radius R into the density equation: [cite: 664]
ρ = mₙ A(4)/(3)π (R₀ A1/3)³ = (mₙ A)/((4)/(3)π R₀³ A) = (mₙ)/((4)/(3)π R₀³) [cite: 664]
As observed, the mass number A cancels out perfectly, implying that the density of all nuclei is roughly identical and constant regardless of their mass numbers[cite: 664, 666]. Thus, the nuclear density of copper is equal to that of carbon, meaning Assertion (A) is incorrect[cite: 20, 663]. Reason (R) is correct since R ∝ A1/3 is a foundational empirical law of nuclear physics[cite: 21, 668].
Pattern Recognition
Nuclear mass scales with A, while volume scales with R³ ∝ (A1/3)³ = A[cite: 664]. Therefore, Density ∝ (A)/(A) = constant[cite: 664, 666]. Always look out for options asserting varying nuclear densities across heavy vs light elements—it is a common trap.
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Physics: Nuclei