If in nuclear fusion process the masses of the fusing nuclei

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If in nuclear fusion process the masses of the fusing nuclei be m₁ and m₂ and the mass of the resultant nucleus be m₃, then

1. m₃ > (m₁ + m₂)
2. m₃ = m₁ + m₂
3. m₃ = | m₁ – m₂ |
4. m₃ < (m₁ + m₂)

Correct Option: D

m₃ < (m₁ + m₂)(∵ m₁ + m₂ = m₃ + E ]
as E = [m₁ + m₂ – m₃] C²