Some students think only large nuclei can be radioactive

Quantum and Nuclear

Misconception TEACHER COMMUNITY

Students are typically familiar with unstable heavy elements such as uranium and plutonium from popular culture, but when presented with a question about carbon-14, they assumed it was a trick question.

Diagnostic Resources

Resources to Address This

  • Use this group activity to explain why some nuclei are stable and others are not. The carbon isotopes used in the question may prompt students to examine their thinking that only heavy nuclei are unstable. 

    View Resource

With thanks to the teaching community for submitting this misconception about radioactivity.

Limit Less Campaign

Support our manifesto for change

The IOP wants to support young people to fulfil their potential by doing physics. Please sign the manifesto today so that we can show our politicians there is widespread support for improving equity and inclusion across the education sector.

Sign today