Why are some isotopes more stable than others?
In what ways can a nucleus undergo change?
How do large, unstable nuclei become more stable?
How can the random nature of radioactive decay allow for predictions to be made?
In which form is energy stored within the nucleus of the atom?
How can the energy released from the nucleus be harnessed?
Are there differences between the photons emitted as a result of atomic versus nuclear transitions?
How does equilibrium within a star compare to stability within the nucleus of an atom?
Would a nucleus be able to exist if only gravitational and electric forces were considered?
How did conservation lead to experimental evidence of the neutrino? (NOS)
Which areas of physics involve exponential change? (NOS)
In which form is energy released as a result of nuclear fission?
How is binding energy used to determine the rate of energy production in a nuclear power plant?
To what extent is there a role for fission in addressing climate change? (NOS)
isotopes
the changes in the state of the nucleus following alpha, beta and gamma radioactive decay
the radioactive decay equations involving α, β − , β + , γ
the existence of neutrinos and antineutrinos
the penetration and ionizing ability of alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays
the activity, count rate and half-life in radioactive decay
the changes in activity and count rate during radioactive decay using integer values of half-life
the effect of background radiation on count rate.
nuclear binding energy and mass defect
the variation of the binding energy per nucleon with nucleon number
the mass-energy equivalence as given by E = mc2 in nuclear reactions
the existence of the strong nuclear force, a short-range, attractive force between nucleons
the random and spontaneous nature of radioactive decay
that energy is released in spontaneous and neutron-induced fission
the role of chain reactions in nuclear fission reactions
the role of control rods, moderators, heat exchangers and shielding in a nuclear power plant
the properties of the products of nuclear fission and their management.
