Knowra Nuclear physics Nuclear physics Nuclear physics studies atomic nuclei, their constituents, interactions, structure, and reactions. It explains how nuclear forces bind protons and neutrons and how nuclei transform.
Atomic nucleus : The dense central region of an atom, composed of protons and neutrons. It is the central object whose structure and behavior nuclear physics investigates.
Radioactive decay : The spontaneous transformation of an unstable atomic nucleus, often accompanied by emitted particles or radiation. It is a central route by which unstable nuclei approach more stable configurations.
Nuclear reactor : A system that sustains and controls a nuclear fission chain reaction, typically to produce heat or neutrons. Reactors apply controlled fission to generate power and produce research materials.
Atomic physics : The study of atoms, especially their electrons, energy levels, and interactions with radiation. It focuses mainly on electron structure, while nuclear physics centers on the nucleus.
Ernest Rutherford : A physicist whose experiments established the nuclear model of the atom and who later identified the proton. His scattering experiments revealed that positive charge and most atomic mass reside in a tiny nucleus.
Proton : A positively charged baryon found in atomic nuclei and composed of two up quarks and one down quark. Its charge helps determine nuclear composition and the electromagnetic repulsion nuclei must overcome.
Nuclear fission : A nuclear reaction in which a heavy nucleus splits into lighter nuclei, usually releasing energy and neutrons. It converts nuclear binding energy into energetic fragments and can sustain a chain reaction.
Nuclear medicine : A medical specialty that uses radioactive substances for diagnosis, treatment, and biological research. Radioactive decay and radiation interactions enable imaging and targeted therapies.
Particle physics : The study of fundamental particles and their interactions, including the constituents of protons and neutrons. It probes more elementary constituents and interactions than most nuclear-structure studies.
Geiger–Marsden experiment : A series of alpha-particle scattering experiments on thin metal foil conducted under Ernest Rutherford's direction. Large-angle scattering supplied the evidence for a compact atomic nucleus.
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