PHYSICS CHRISTMAS PROJECT

SECTION TOPIC: THE PHYSICS OF THE ATOM

The following questions are to be answered by section and to be presented in acceptable project
format. PLAGIARISM WILL BE PENALISED.

Models of the Atom

1. Describe the work done in establishing the modern view of the atom. (Include Thomson,
Rutherford, Bohr and Chadwick).
2. Describe the Geiger-Marsden experiment which established the nuclear structure of the atom.

Structure of the Atom

3. Represent diagrammatically the structure of the sodium and neon atoms. (Include the
distribution of charge).
4. Compare the mass and charge of the electron with the mass and charge of proton.
5. Explain why an atom is normally neutral and stable.
6. Discuss the difference between atomic number (Z), neutron number (N) and mass number (A).
Write the equation that relates Z, N and A.
7. Explain what is meant by the terms isotope and nuclide.
8. Describe the periodic table outlining at least two major trends. (Include a copy of the periodic
table).

Radioactivity

9. Describe Marie Curie’s work in the field of radioactivity.

10. Outline the nature of the three types of emissions from radioactive substances.
11. Describe an experiment to compare the ranges of α, β, and γ emissions in various media.
12. Describe the appearance of the tracks of radioactive emissions in a cloud chamber.
13. State the effects of magnetic and electric fields on the motion of α, β, and γ rays.
14. Explain the significance of the reaction below:
226 222 4
88 Ra → 86 Rn+ 2 He
radium radon α particles
radium
15. Define the terms half life (T1/2) and radioisotopes.
16. Discuss the useful applications of radioisotopes.
17. Outline the precautions to be taken when handling radioisotopes.

Nuclear Energy

18. Explain what nuclear energy is.

19. Distinguish between fission and fusion nuclear reactions.
20. Cite arguments for and against the utilization of nuclear energy.
 Due :- on or before January 30, 2021. Lateness will also be penalised .