Definition
Binding energy is the energy required to separate a system into its individual components. In nuclear physics, it’s the energy that holds the nucleus of an atom together. 💪 Imagine it as the "glue" that prevents protons and neutrons from flying apart. In chemistry, it refers to the energy holding atoms together in a molecule. The greater the binding energy, the more stable the system. For example, it takes a lot of energy to break apart a very stable molecule or atomic nucleus. Binding energy explains why some elements and compounds are more stable than others.