Module 8: From the Universe to the Atom

Origins of The Elements

HSC Syllabus: What evidence is there for the origins of the elements?

• The Birth and Evolution of Our Universe
• Understanding Stellar Spectra
• Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
• Nuclear Fusion in Stars

Structure of the Atom

HSC Syllabus: How is it known that atoms are made up of protons, neutrons and electrons?

• Understanding Cathode Ray Experiments
• Thomson's Electron Discovery
• Millikans Oil Drop Experiment
• Geiger Marsden Gold Foil Experiment
• Chadwick's Neutron Discovery

Quantum Mechanical Nature of the Atom

HSC Syllabus: How is it known that classical physics cannot explain the properties of the atom?

• Bohrs Atomic Model of the Atom
• De Broglie's Matter Waves Hypothesis
• Schrodinger's Atomic Model
• Evolution of the Atomic Models

Properties of the Nucleus

HSC Syllabus: How can the energy of the atomic nucleus be harnessed?

• The Strong Nuclear Force and Nuclear Stability
• Understanding Radioactive Decay
• Radioactive Decay Calculations
• Nuclear Fission and Chain Reactions
• Mass Defect and Nuclear Binding Energy

Deep Inside the Atom

HSC Syllabus: How is it known that human understanding of matter is still incomplete?

• The Standard Model of Matter: Quarks and Leptons
• The Standard Model of Matter: Bosons
• The Standard Model's Strengths and Limitations
• Particle Accelerators