Themes: Energy and Matter
Overview: In this unit, students study the development and modification of models of the structure of matter.
Focusing Questions: How is the atom organized? How can a model of the atom and the nucleus be subjected to experimental tests? How does knowledge of the internal structure of the atom lead to the development of applications of energy supply and to the technology of diagnostic imaging?
General Outcomes: There are four major outcomes in this unit.
Students will:
1. describe the electrical nature of the atom
2. describe the quantization of energy in atoms and nuclei
3. describe nuclear fission and fusion as powerful energy sources in nature
4. describe the ongoing development of models of the structure of matter.
Key Concepts: The following concepts are developed in this unit and may also be addressed in other units or in other courses. The intended level and scope of treatment is defined by the learning outcomes.
• charge-to-mass ratio (Thomson’s experiment)
• classical model of the atom (Rutherford, Bohr)
• spectra: continuous, line emission and line absorption
• energy levels (states)
• de Broglie hypothesis
• quantum mechanical model
• half-life
• nuclear decay
• nuclear reactions
• Standard Model of matter