Energy Released in Nuclear Fusion of Deuterium to Helium

To calculate the energy released in the nuclear fusion reaction $2 \,_1^2\text{H} \rightarrow \,_2^4\text{He}$, we determine the difference between the total binding energy of the product and reactant nuclei.

The total binding energy of two deuterium nuclei is $2 \times (2 \times 1.1\text{ MeV}) = 4.4\text{ MeV}$, while the total binding energy of the helium nucleus is $4 \times 7.2\text{ MeV} = 28.8\text{ MeV}$.

The net energy released is $Q = 28.8\text{ MeV} - 4.4\text{ MeV} = 24.4\text{ MeV}$.

Hence, the correct option is (B).