Introductory — Nuclear Physics

: The process by which an unstable nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

: The splitting of a heavy nucleus into smaller parts, releasing a massive amount of energy.

: The merging of light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, the process that powers stars. Applications in Society Introductory Nuclear Physics

: The nucleus consists of hadrons : protons (positive charge) and neutrons (neutral charge). Atomic Number (

: This is the energy required to hold the nucleus together. It is calculated using Einstein's mass-energy equation , : The process by which an unstable nucleus

Nuclear Physics, Radioisotope Fuels, and Protective Components

, which is significantly higher than bulk material densities. and Protective Components

Nuclear stability and behavior are governed by two of nature's four fundamental forces: