Option A: Radiation In Our World
Research the uses for radioactivity. Create a product (brochure, presentation, or report) that describes how radiation is used in our world. You must include examples for each type of radiation studied in this unit: alpha, beta plus (positron), beta minus (electron), and gamma. Access the Radiation In Our World printable version for complete directions and a checklist for this assignment. Once you have completed this assignment, please submit your work to the dropbox.
Option B: Nuclear Processes Scientific Investigation
Before you begin the scientific investigation below, make sure to download the Nuclear Processes Scientific Investigation Report. As you complete this scientific investigation, fill in any needed information on the report template. If you need more information about each section of the report, please visit the Developmental Module.
This scientific investigation is available below or in a printable version.
Radioactivity is the process by which an unstable nucleus loses energy by emitting particles. Nuclear decay occurs as a result of various nuclear reactions.
Objectives
In this scientific investigation, you will:
Hypothesis
Using the three Procedure and Data Collection sections below, read through the procedural information for this scientific investigation. Based on your understanding of the procedure, develop your own hypotheses to verify Conservation of Mass and Energy in Nuclear Reactions. Use the guide questions below as your data/data analysis sections. Utilize actual cost analysis (cite your sources) to determine the most effective and efficient method for production of electrical energy. Record these hypotheses in the Hypothesis section of your Nuclear Processes Scientific Investigation.
Required Simulations
Alpha Decay Simulation
(click on image below to run simulation)
Beta Decay Simulation
(click on image below to run simulation)
Nuclear Fission Simulation
(click on image below to run simulation)
Provided by:
PhET Interactive Simulations
University of Colorado
http://phet.colorado.edu
Procedure and Data Collection
Alpha Decay Simulation Set-Up
Alpha Decay Simulation Procedure and Data Collection
Beta Decay Simulation Set-Up
Beta Decay Simulation Procedure and Data Collection
Nuclear Fission Simulation Set-Up
Nuclear Fission Simulation Procedure and Data Collection
Conclusion
Using the Conclusion section of your Nuclear Processes Scientific Investigation Report, compose three to four sentences describing an overall conclusion about nuclear decay and how it can be harnessed for specific purposes. Were your hypotheses true or false, and how do you know? Use the data and notes that you collected from your simulation experiences to form your conclusion. Make sure that you include information that you gained from data analysis to support your conclusion.
Experimental Sources of Error
On your Nuclear Processes Scientific Investigation Report, provide responses to the following questions: Are there any sources of error? If so, what are they and what could be done to minimize error?
Once you have completed the Nuclear Processes Scientific Investigation, please submit your work to the dropbox.