Content Outline

Massachusetts Science Framework Standard/s

Concepts Objective

Associated Mathematics Skills

Prerequisite skills

VII. The Atomic Nucleus

   A. Radioactivity

       1. Alpha

       2. Beta

       3. Gamma

   B. Half-life

   C. Nuclear Decay

       1. Natural transmutation

       2. Artificial transmutation

       3. Decay equations

   D. Nuclear Fission

       1. Chain reaction

       2. Fission reactors

       3. Breeder reactors

   E. Nuclear Fusion

   F. Uses

       1. Medicine

       2. Power plants

   G. Problems

       1. Waste disposal

1.      Nuclear accidents

   a. Chernobyl

 C2.8 Describe alpha, beta and gamma particles; discuss the properties of alpha, beta and gamma radiation and write balanced nuclear reactions

C2.9 Compare nuclear fission and fusion and mass defect

C2.10 Describe the process of radioactive decay as the spontaneous breakdown of certain unstable elements (radioactive) into new elements (radioactive or not) through the spontaneous emission by the nucleus of alpha and beta particles

C 2.11 Explain the concept of half-life of a radioactive element, e.g.; explain why the half-life of C-14 has made carbon dating a powerful tool in determining the age of very old objects

· Identify three types of nuclear radiation and their properties

· Calculate the half-life of a radioactive isotope

· Balance equations for nuclear decay

· Explain what a chain reaction is, how one is initiated and how it can be controlled

· Distinguish between fission and fusion and provide examples of each

· Identify several beneficial uses of nuclear radiation

· Explain the benefits and drawbacks of nuclear power

· Describe the dangers and possible health effects of exposure to nuclear radiation