Unstable Nucleus
Quantum and Nuclear
Episode 523: Preparation for nuclear stability topic
Teaching Guidance
for 16-19
Starting from the pattern of stability, this section looks at forces in the nucleus and the idea of binding energy.
Main aims of this topic
Students will:
- Sketch the N-Z graph for stable nuclei
- Describe the balance of forces that results in a stable nucleus
- Calculate mass defect and binding energy
- Relate nuclear fission and fusion to the graph of binding energy per nucleon
Prior knowledge
Students should know about the composition of nuclei in terms of protons and neutrons. They should be familiar with nuclear notation e.g. 20983Bi
Where this leads
An understanding of nuclear stability leads on to a study of nuclear fusion and fission.