Atomic Physics
Update - 3/26/2026
These notes have changed to match the 2025 IB Physics curriculum. If you are looking for the files that were posted here, you can find them in the notes archive
Content Guide - Atomic Physics (pdf)
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Content Guide - Atomic Physics (editable)
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Content Guide - Atomic Physics - KEY (pdf)
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Content Guide - Atomic Physics - KEY (editable)
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1 - Structure of the Atom

  • I can describe how the historical understanding of the atom has changed over time
  • I can describe the Rutherford-Geiger-Marsden experiment and how it helped discover the nucleus
  • I can interpret isotope notation to determine the number of protons and neutrons
  • I can describe electron energy levels and how transitions between these absorb and emit energy
  • I can calculate the energy, frequency, and wavelength of light emitted by transitioning electrons
  • I can identify and calculate the emission wavelengths for different elements
1 - Structure of the Atom - COMPLETE (pdf)
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1 - Structure of the Atom - COMPLETE (editable)
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1 - Structure of the Atom - STUDENT (pdf)
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1 - Structure of the Atom - STUDENT (editable)
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2 - Radioactive Decay

  • I can describe the role of the strong force and explain how nuclei can become unstable
  • I can predict the products of radioactive alpha, beta, and gamma decay
  • I can compare and contrast the properties of alpha, beta, and gamma particles
  • I can conceptually describe the meaning of half-life
  • I can calculate the % of a substance remaining after a given number of half lives
  • I can calculate the age of a sample when given the percentage of an isotope remaining
2 - Radioactive Decay - COMPLETE (pdf)
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2 - Radioactive Decay - COMPLETE (editable)
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2 - Radioactive Decay - STUDENT (pdf)
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2 - Radioactive Decay - STUDENT (editable)
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3 - Energy and Mass Defect

  • I can relate units of mass between kilograms (kg) and atomic mass units (u)
  • I can use the mass/energy equivalence to mathematically relate mass and energy
  • I can define mass defect and explain how it is related to energy
  • I can calculate the mass defect of a nuclide
  • I can calculate binding energy from mass defect
3 - Energy and Mass Defect - COMPLETE (pdf)
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3 - Energy and Mass Defect - COMPLETE (editable)
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3 - Energy and Mass Defect - STUDENT (pdf)
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3 - Energy and Mass Defect - STUDENT (editable)
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4 - Nuclear Power

  • I can describe the chain reaction that occurs to support a self-sustaining fission reactor
  • I can describe the concentration of U-235 as a sample is enriched into fuel-grade uranium
  • I can outline the process of enriching uranium
  • I can explain how a nuclear reactor transforms the energy of a fission reaction into electricity
  • I can describe the role of the moderator and control rods in a nuclear reactor
  • I can discuss the challenges of disposing of nuclear waste
4 - Nuclear Power - COMPLETE (pdf)
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4 - Nuclear Power - COMPLETE (editable)
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4 - Nuclear Power - STUDENT (pdf)
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4 - Nuclear Power - STUDENT (editable)
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