Learn nuclear science with marbles

Students use magnetic marbles to simulate nuclear processes.

Audience: Middle/high school science students

Where: your classroom

How long: 60-90 minutes

What: This hands-on lesson plan is intended to give teachers the option to teach nuclear astrophysics to students in grades 7-12. The JINA/NSCL project centers around nuclear models constructed from magnets. Downloadable materials help the teacher guide students to investigate nuclear properties, unstable isotopes, decay modes, nuclear reactions, and more. The lessons can be taught with simply a supply of magnetic marbles, and there are related pieces of equipment that can also be used to demonstrate further concepts. These lessons can also be used in conjunction with a field trip to NSCL.

For more information: go to the JINAweb marble nuclei page to download program resources or contact the Outreach coordinator.

Students from Ovid-Elsie Schools, February 2, 2008