Nearly There

Honors Physics reviewed their quantum physics homework and then continued on with their discussion of nuclear stability and nuclear decay. Remember that decay is natural process and that may involve many steps before a stable nucleus is produced. If the decay step involves alpha or beta decay, expect the formation of a new element. Gamma decay does not alter the identity of the atom, but often accompanies alpha and beta emissions. Tomorrow, we take time to review for Monday’s exam on magnetism and, if there is time, take on the discussion of measuring nuclear decay.

Physical Science B and E worked on their magnetism exams. We are now heading into the review process for the MCAS exam that will be administered on June 2 and 3. We will go through the relevant course material and take time to practice the math skills that are required for success on the exam. The prudent student will begin gathering the old MCAS practice questions I gave you, finding notes packets for early chapters and pulling together old math worksheets so that you can get an idea of what material you need to review the most. Since tomorrow is going to be characterized by low attendance, we’ll take up with the review process in full on Monday.

Physics F and G took their magnetism exams and then started the reading for the final unit of the year – atomic and nuclear physics. We’ll have a brief introduction to the idea of quantum physics and explore the nuclear emissions that characterize unstable nuclei. Since many of you will be heading to Six Flags tomorrow, make sure that you have all of tonight’s homework completed by Monday.

Homework

Honors Physics A: Practice 25A and 25B; 25.1 Section Review
Physical Science B and E: Script an original word problems for each formula on the MCAS formula sheet and provide a fully-worked out solution.
Physics F and G: Practice 23A #2, 4; Practice 23B #1, 2 4; 23.1 Section Review