A-Level Physics · 23 Nuclear physics
Mass defect, binding energy, fission, and fusion for A-Level Physics
Mass defect, binding energy, fission, and fusion is mapped to 23 Nuclear physics in the Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics pathway. Use this public guide to see exactly where the concept fits, what to master, and which GioPhysics resource continues the study sequence.
Where this fits
23 Nuclear physics
- Curriculum
- Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics
- Theme or group
- A Level extension
- Current framework
- Examinations in 2025–2027 · Version 1
Mass defect and binding energy are in Chapter 46; the decay-law calculus is lesson 24.6 and nuclear radii are in Chapter 47.
Mastery checklist
Know what success looks like.
- 01
Track energy transfers with a clearly stated system boundary.
- 02
Choose the appropriate work, energy, or power relationship and keep its sign convention visible.
- 03
Account for useful output, dissipation, and conservation before judging the final value.
Exam lens
Build, apply, check.
23 Nuclear physics sits inside A Level extension. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.
Teaching sequence
23 Nuclear physics
This syllabus point maps to 3 ordered concept guides.
- 01Mass defect, binding energy, fission, and fusionCurrent guide
- 02Radioactive decay, activity, and half-life
- 03Exponential decay and the decay constant