Binding blocks: building the Universe one nucleus at a time
Date
2017
Authors
Diget, C. Aa
Pastore, A
Leech, K
Haylett, T
Lock, S
Sanders, T
Shelley, M
Willett, H V
Keegans, J
Sinclair, L
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Volume Title
Publisher
Institute of Physics Publishing
Abstract
We present a new teaching and outreach activity based around the construction of a three-dimensional chart of isotopes using LEGO bricks. The activity, binding blocks, demonstrates nuclear and astrophysical processes through a seven-meter chart of all nuclear isotopes, built from over 26000 LEGO bricks. It integrates A-Level and GCSE curricula across areas of nuclear physics, astrophysics, and chemistry, including: nuclear decays (through the colours in the chart); nuclear binding energy (through tower heights); production of chemical elements in the cosmos; fusion processes in stars and fusion energy on Earth; as well as links to medical physics, particularly diagnostics and radiotherapy.
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Physics Education
Type
Journal article
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Restricted until
2099-12-31
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