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Subject 24 · Atomic Physics

Chapter 24

Atomic Physics

Follow discrete atomic energy into line spectra, then enter the nucleus for decay, half-life, binding energy, particle structure, and the exponential calculus of radioactivity.

MYPIGCSEA-LevelAPIBDepth varies by course
Anchor ideaE = hf = E₂−E₁
A visual modelATOM · α · NUCLEUS
6 connected lessonsBuild the ideas in sequence
Interactive concept labChange a value. See the physics.
Half-Life HeistLearn through a free physics game
Formulae & exam practiceTurn understanding into confidence
One connected route

Build atomic physics one idea at a time.

Start with the foundations, then explore advanced ideas and calculus at the depth your course needs.

6 of 6 lessons

Interactive concept lab

Change one variable. Watch the physics respond.

Explore N = N₀·2⁻ᵗ/ᵀ½, then take the idea into the full lessons.

Concept lab · explore

Model radioactive decay

N = N₀·2⁻ᵗ/ᵀ½
Model output157 nuclei

Initial sample fixed at 1000 nuclei. The smooth curve is an expectation for a large sample; individual decays remain random.

Output as elapsed time changesHalf-life held at 12 s
Model radioactive decay relationship graph0100Elapsed time (s)10000Output (nuclei)
Learn · explore · practise

Everything around the chapter, in one place.

Keep building with practice, classroom presentations, formulae, and a game that puts these ideas to work.

Key ideas to remember
Continue the sequence

Move without losing your place.

Extra challenging questions

Take the ideas further with course-specific extension questions, supplied-data graphs and worked solutions.