Subjects: Physics

The ideas of atomic spectra and the specifics of the hydrogen spectrum are synthesized to present Bohr’s model of the hydrogen atom. The laser provides a context for discussing energy levels and emission of radiation due to energy transitions.

The phenomena of fluorescence and phosphorescence provide the context to explore, qualitatively, the main ideas of the quantum mechanical model of the atom.

Radioactivity is introduced. Explores the properties of alpha, beta and gamma radiation and conducts a risk-benefit assessment, in the context of food irradiation.

Radioactive decay is introduced using radioactive dating of artifacts and fossils as examples. Explains how to describe decay in terms of nuclear equations and half-life calculations.

The final program of the series looks to the future. In the context of speculating how electricity will be generated 40 years from now, it investigates the nature of fission and fusion, comparing these two options to a coal-fired system.

Data is collected and analysed to investigate the photoelectric effect and begin to quantify the photon model of light. These concepts are applied to photosynthesis, photovoltaic cells, CCDs and vision.

Examines the medical use of x-rays, x-ray production, the photoelectric and Compton effects, and wave-particle duality as it applies to photons. De Broglie’s notion of matter waves is introduced as another example of wave-particle duality.

Reveals the visible spectra of a number of gases, and explains the analytical power of spectral analysis. This line of thought leads to a number of applications and Rutherford’s model of the atom.

Auroras provide a context to study moving charges within a magnetic field. Shows that moving electric charges experience a force in magnetic fields and quantifies this force, and gives its direction using hand rules.

Investigates induction and provides explanations of the effect based on magnetic field-current interactions. Discussions with musicians and audio-recording personnel links the concept of electromagnetic induction to sound equipment.