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.
De Broglie wavelength (equation)
Quantum wave function
Atomic energy levels
Bohr model (Radii & energy levels)
Absorption & emission lines
Fundamental particles
Atomic nuclei
Nuclear decay
Lab: Half-life of Pennium (Pn)
Mass energy equivalence (nuclear mass defect)
Mass defect & binding energy
Mass energy equivalence (nuclear mass defect)
Atomic nuclei
Nuclear stability & decay
Lab: Half-life of Pennium (Pn)
Fundamental particles
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.