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Chapter 26 of 29
Syllabus

Nuclear Physics

Telangana Open School (TOSS) · Class 12 · Physics

Complete topic list for Nuclear Physics in Telangana Open School (TOSS) Class 12 Physics. Key concepts, sub-topics, and what to focus on for board exams.

53 questions30 flashcards5 concepts

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4 Topics · Telangana Open School (TOSS) Class 12 Physics

Topics in Nuclear Physics

1

Atomic Nucleus and Its Properties

  • The nucleus contains protons (positively charged) and neutrons (neutral), collectively called nucleons.
  • Atomic number (Z) = number of protons; Mass number (A) = protons + neutrons.
  • Neutron number N = A – Z.
2

Mass Defect and Binding Energy

  • The actual mass of a nucleus is less than the sum of its individual protons and neutrons.
  • This difference is called mass defect (Δm).
  • Mass defect is converted into binding energy via E = Δmc².
3

Radioactivity and Decay Laws

  • Radioactivity is spontaneous emission of α, β, or γ radiation from unstable nuclei.
  • α-particles are helium nuclei (⁴₂He), β-particles are fast electrons (⁰₋₁e), γ-rays are high-energy photons.
  • α-decay reduces Z by 2, A by 4; β-decay increases Z by 1, A unchanged.
4

Nuclear Reactions: Fission and Fusion

  • Nuclear fission: heavy nucleus splits into lighter fragments, releasing neutrons and energy.
  • Fission of ²³⁵U releases ~200 MeV and 2–3 neutrons per event.
  • Chain reaction occurs if at least one neutron causes further fission.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Nuclear Physics

Atomic NucleusNuclear Notation and SpeciesUnified Atomic Mass Unit (u)Mass Defect and Binding EnergyNuclear ForceRadioactivityNuclear ReactionsNuclear Fission

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Nuclear Physics for Telangana Open School (TOSS) Class 12 Physics?
Nuclear Physics covers several key topics that are frequently asked in Telangana Open School (TOSS) Class 12 board exams. Focus on the core concepts listed on this page and practise related questions to build confidence.
How to score full marks in Nuclear Physics — Telangana Open School (TOSS) Class 12 Physics?
Understand the core concepts first, then work through the 53 practice questions available for this chapter. Revise formulas and definitions regularly, and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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