AQA A Level Physics Nuclear Physics

A comprehensive AQA A Level Physics Nuclear Physics revision PowerPoint designed for classroom teaching, intervention, retrieval practice and exam preparation.

Each major topic begins with Do Now (DNA) retrieval questions followed by a separate answer slide for immediate feedback and correction. Key knowledge is presented using a Cornell note-taking structure with Cues/Questions, Main Notes and Summary sections to help students organise, retrieve and review essential ideas.

After each key point, students complete three short-answer whiteboard questions testing knowledge, understanding and common misconceptions. Answers are provided for rapid assessment and correction. Longer book-work questions are followed by worked solutions and detailed revision notes.

Topics include:
• Rutherford scattering and the nuclear model
• Alpha, beta and gamma radiation
• Radiation properties, uses and safety
• Background radiation and inverse square law
• Radioactive decay, activity and decay constant
• Half-life calculations and decay graphs
• Carbon dating and nuclear waste storage
• Nuclear stability and decay chains
• Alpha, beta plus, beta minus and gamma emission
• Nuclear radius and nuclear density
• Mass-energy equivalence
• Binding energy and binding energy per nucleon
• Nuclear fission and fusion
• Induced fission, chain reactions and critical mass
• Nuclear reactor control rods, moderator and coolant

Designed for whole-class display with clear layouts, large readable text, worked examples and exam-focused practice.