An atom smasher, or particle accelerator, collides atomic nuclei together at extremely cold temperatures, very low air pressure, and hyperbolically fast speeds. Don Lincoln explains how scientists harness the power of both electric and magnetic fields to smash atoms, eventually leading to major discoveries about the matter in our universe. 

1. De Broglie wavelength (equation)

2. Quantum wave function

3. Atomic energy levels

4. Bohr model (Radii & energy levels)

5. Absorption & emission lines

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7. Fundamental particles

8. Atomic nuclei

9. Nuclear decay

10. Lab: Half-life of Pennium (Pn)

11. Mass energy equivalence (nuclear mass defect)

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Fermilab scientist Don Lincoln describes the Standard Model of particle physics, covering both the particles that make up the subatomic realm and the forces that govern them. 

How did Rutherford figure out the structure of the atom without being able to see it? Simulate the famous experiment in which he disproved the Plum Pudding model of the atom by observing alpha particles bouncing off atoms and determining that they must have a small core.

1. Mass defect & binding energy

2. Mass energy equivalence (nuclear mass defect)

3. Atomic nuclei

4. Nuclear stability & decay

5. Lab: Half-life of Pennium (Pn)

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7. Fundamental particles

Nuclear fusion and fission, gamma rays, neutron scattering & capture, alpha & beta decay, binding energy, and many other topics. 

Radiation is one of those words that frightens many people. In this video, Fermilab’s Dr. Don Lincoln explains the known kinds of nuclear radiation and their different properties. 

Scientists are aware of four fundamental forces- gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces.  Most people have at least some familiarity with gravity and electromagnetism, but not the other two.  How is it that scientists are so certain that two additional forces exist?  In this video, Fermilab’s Dr. Don Lincoln explains why scientists are so certain that the strong force exists. 

Build an atom out of protons, neutrons, and electrons, and see how the element, charge, and mass change. Then play a game to test your ideas!