Nuclear Physics

Nuclear Physics

1. Photoelectric effect

   • Occurs when light shining onto a piece of metal causes electrons to be given off. For most metals UV light is required.
   • Atomic line spectra
     • The light given out by low-pressure gases when they are exited by heat or electrical discharge. An example of this is given out by neon advertising lights or yellow sodium vapour street lights.

2. Nuclear reactions

   • In nuclear reactions the atomic number and the mass number are conserved.
   • Binding energy
     • The amount of energy which must be supplied in order to make up the mass deficit.
   • Nuclear fission
     • Occurs when a large nucleus split into smaller nuclei. When this happens, a large amount of energy is released as KE and gamma radiation.
   • Nuclear fusion
     • This is where 2 small nuclei join together to form a larger nucleus. Again large amounts of energy is released.