Nuclear Physics
Definition
Nuclear physics is a field of science that studies the constituents, structure, behavior and interactions of atomic nuclei.
Analogy
Think of nuclear physics like a game of billiards. The balls represent atomic particles and their movement on the table represents how these particles interact within an atom's nucleus. Just as you need to understand the rules and strategies to play billiards well, scientists use nuclear physics to understand the 'rules' governing atomic interactions.
Related terms
Atomic Structure: This refers to the composition of an atom, which includes protons, neutrons, and electrons. It's like understanding what each ball in our billiard game represents.
Radioactivity: This is a process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation. It's akin to when a ball in our billiard game loses momentum after being hit.
Fission & Fusion: These are reactions that occur within an atom's nucleus involving splitting (fission) or combining (fusion) smaller atomic particles. Imagine breaking up or merging different groups of balls during our billiard game.
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