Matter and Radiation
Quantum nature of radiation, photoelectric effect, Einstein’s equation, line spectra, X-rays, wave-particle duality, and nuclear physics basics.
Matter and Radiation — Lessons (8)
Black-Body Radiation and Quantum Theory
Black-body radiation curves, Wien’s displacement law λ_max T = b, Stefan-Boltzmann law E = σT⁴, classical failure (ultraviolet catastrophe), and Planck’s quantum hypothesis E = nhf.
Photoelectric Effect and the Photon
Master Planck’s quantum hypothesis E = hf, the failure of classical wave theory, Einstein’s photoelectric equation hf = Φ + ½mv_max², threshold frequency f₀, work function Φ, stopping potential V_s, and photocurrent-voltage characteristics.
Wave-Particle Duality and X-Rays
Explore de Broglie matter waves (λ = h/p = h/√(2mqV)), electron diffraction evidence, Coolidge tube generation of X-rays, continuous Bremsstrahlung spectrum with Duane-Hunt cutoff (λ_min = hc/eV), and characteristic X-ray emission lines.
Atomic Models and Line Emission Spectra
Study Rutherford’s nuclear model, Bohr’s postulates for hydrogen, angular momentum quantization mvr = nh/(2π), energy levels E_n = -13.6/n² eV, Rydberg formula 1/λ = R_H (1/n₁² - 1/n₂²), and spectral series (Lyman, Balmer, Paschen).
Radioactivity and Nuclear Reactions
Master nuclear composition (A, Z, N), nuclear radius R = R₀ A^(1/3), constant nuclear density, mass defect Δm, binding energy per nucleon curve, radioactive decay law N = N₀ e^(-λt), half-life T_½ = ln 2 / λ, activity A = λN, and fission/fusion energy release.
Nuclear Energy: Mass Defect, Binding Energy, Fission and Fusion
Einstein’s mass-energy equivalence E = mc², atomic mass unit u, mass defect Δm, binding energy per nucleon curve, nuclear stability, nuclear fission chain reactions, and thermonuclear fusion.
Fundamental Particles and Interactions
The Standard Model of particle physics: Quarks (u, d, c, s, t, b), fractional charges, Leptons (e, μ, τ and neutrinos), Gauge Bosons (photon, gluon, W/Z), Hadrons (Baryons and Mesons), and the four fundamental forces of nature.
Unit 11 Summative Assessment: Matter & Radiation
Comprehensive 20-question examination testing all 7 competencies in Unit 11 (Black-body radiation, photoelectric effect, de Broglie matter waves, X-rays, radioactive decay, nuclear energy, and Standard Model fundamental particles) with instant competency diagnostic feedback.