Nuclear Energy

Introduction

Hi there Boys and Girls!!

Welcome to grade 11 Physics, where it's about to get interesting. Have you ever heard the equation, E= mc^2, or wondered what was the mechanism behind nuclear bomb? Want to know the science behind intercontinental ballistic missiles, will guess what, you are exactly where you need to be.

It's awesome how one tiny atom can create something so magnificent and useful. Today we will learn about the history of nuclear energy, the process involved, nuclear fission and fusion, advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy. So, take on this exciting journey with me young Physicists!

Task

Your exciting task for today involves the creation of a three-dimensional representation of the uranium 235 atom. You will work in groups of five. You will need glue, scissors, cardboard, string, 235 large craft balls (92 of one color for the protons and the other 143 for the neutrons that's a different color), and 92 small craft balls for the electrons. Glue both colored craft balls into a ball, alternating between the protons and neutrons as you glue. This will resemble the nucleus. Cut out seven rings, each half an inch bigger than the other in the cardboard, using the scissors. Using the string, tie all the rings in a concentric circle around the nucleus. Glue two small craft balls to the smallest circle, eight on the second smallest circle, eighteen to the third circle, thirty-two on the next circle, twenty-one on the next, nine on the following and two on the last ring. These will resemble all the electrons on the atom.

 

You will then present your model to the class and speak about the use of uranium 235 in the creation of nuclear energy, making sure to speak on nuclear fission and fusion, the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy.

Process

Here's all you need to complete your task:

 

1. Learn about the principles involved in nuclear fission and fusion

 

You will use Youtube to watch this interactive video on the use of uranium 235 in creating nuclear energy:

Physics - Nuclear Fission reaction explained - Physics

 

2. Learn about the history and principles of nuclear energy:

 

You will view the website below, where the information is all laid out orderly:

What is Nuclear Energy? The Science of Nuclear Power | IAEA

 

3. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy:

 

You will view the website below, where the information is all laid out orderly:

Nuclear — Sources — Student Energy

 

4. Plan your presentation.

 

In your groups, decide who will be doing the different parts of the creation of the atom, and what you will be including in your presentation. You can watch the Youtube video below to guide you in the creation of your atomic structure.

Atomic structure model project | Atomic structure model 3d | Atomic structure model making | DIY

 

5. Share your findings

 

You will have to present your findings in a 15-minute presentation to your class in a creative way.

 

Evaluation

Your presentation will be graded separately from your atomic structure:

Atomic Structure

Creativity: 10 marks

Neatness: 8 marks

Proportionality: 12 marks

 

Presentation

Content: 10 marks

Organization: 3 marks

Creativity: 7 marks

Time limit: 5 marks

Conclusion

We have successfully reached the end of our journey, and a hearty congratulations to you all. In completing our WebQuest, you were able to create a three-dimensional representation of the Uranium 235 atomic structure, which I know, was no easy task!

You were able to teach your classmates about the amazing field of nuclear energy, all while being creative and working together as a team. Well done young Physicists!

Credits
Teacher Page

Hello everyone and Welcome to the WebQuest. My name is Shantae Heslop, and since the age of 14, I have been passionate about all things Physics related, and so I designed this WebQuest in mind to help grade 11 students who will be sitting internal and external exams to discover the Physics of the atom in a fun and exciting way by creating the very backbone of nuclear energy. In doing this, students will see the joy of Physics and not something daunting.