Unit VIII: Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Introduction
General Instructional Objectives (and corresponding Specific Learning Outcomes) | Unit Content |
Knows terms
Understands the meaning of terms |
atomic nucleus, atomic number, atomic mass number, bohr model, quantized energy levels, x-, alpha, beta, and gamma rays, alpha and beta particles, nucleon, quarks, isotopes, half-life, nuclear fission and fusion, thermonuclear fusion, critical mass |
Understands scientific concepts | Ritz combination principle, de Broglie matter waves, quantum mechanics, Schrodinger’s wave equation, chain reaction, Correspondence principle, transmutation |
Knows all laboratory procedures
Prepares a plan for an experiment Participates in classroom activities Respects the scientific process Displays a scientific attitude Demonstrates skills in laboratory work |
All content |
Instructional Foci
To begin the section on the atomic nucleus and radioactivity, the teacher should discuss x-rays and radioactivity. Then alpha, beta, and gamma rays should be discussed. Excuse the dry nature, but then the nucleus should be studied in greater depth. The teacher should note that the nucleus is composed of nucleons, which are thought to be made of quarks that have funny names like "truth", "charm", and "beauty", and have never been isolated and experimentally observed. Isotopes are atoms that have the same number of protons, but different a different number of neutrons. The teacher can then discuss why atoms are radioactive and their half-life. When an element emits a beta or an alpha particle a different element is created. This is called a transmutation. Natural transmutations of elements should be discussed. Carbon dating is used to date everything from rocks to ancient skeletons. It is based on radioactive isotopes and their half-lives among other things. Uranium dating is also used, but it is used to date older, nonliving things. It may be useful to discuss the effects of radiation on humans.
In nuclear fission the uranium nucleus divides. Extra
neutrons are liberated in the fission process, which, in turn, can cause
more fission reactions in a chain reaction. Nuclear reactors and breeder
reactors can then be discussed. Plutonium, which was the element in the
atomic bomb, can be explored. Einstein’s mass energy equivalence, E = mc2,
can be introduced by talking about the slightly complicated, yet pervasive
throughout science laboratories, the mass spectrometer. Then the teacher
can discuss fusing hydrogen isotopes together to form helium nuclei in
a nuclear fusion reaction. Nuclear fusion is thought to hold the key to
the future of recycling using a fusion torch, creating electrical power,
and desalinating water.
1. Quantum physics is completely conceptual, which is good. However, it has few, if any, examples in the real world. The teacher must rely on clear lectures and lengthy discussion to achieve optimal understanding by the students.return to main page