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Atoms and Nuclei: Key Concepts, Formulas & Quick Revision

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Atomic Models and Nuclear Structure Explained for Exams

Vedantu gives you special JEE Main Atoms and Nuclei Notes with important topics to help you score well in JEE Main 2026. Master Teachers at Vedantu make these notes to help you do well. You can easily get these Notes for FREE as a PDF from Vedantu’s website. The most important feature of these notes is that they make concepts simple and have important ideas and theories in a short form.Atoms and Nuclei Notes PDF should be an essential material for students this chapter covers the intricate structure of atoms, and the properties of atomic nuclei, shedding light on the heart of matter. It explores the tiny building blocks of matter and the forces within them. In this chapter, you'll learn about atomic structure, energy levels, and the nucleus's role, which holds protons and neutrons tightly together. Key concepts include radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and the laws governing atomic stability. Understanding these ideas helps students understand how atoms form elements and power sources like nuclear energy, laying a strong foundation for advanced physics studies and applications.

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Year-Wise Weightage of Atoms and Nuclei in JEE Main

This is one of the important chapters for JEE Main Exams, and you can expect a minimum of 3 questions from this chapter. Have a look at the number of questions asked from the Atoms and Nuclei chapter in the past five years of the JEE Main exam. You will get an idea of the importance of Atoms and Nuclei in JEE Main by looking at the table below.


S. No

Year

Average No. of Questions Asked

Marks per Question

Total Marks

1

2024

3

4

12

2

2023

3

4

12

3

2022

3

4

12

4

2021

3

4

12

5

2020

3

4

12


It is important to note that the JEE Main syllabus and question paper pattern are subject to change every year, so the number of questions asked from this chapter may vary in future exams. However, it is still a very important chapter to study for the JEE Main Physics section, as it covers a wide range of topics that are likely to be tested.


Take advantage of the opportunity to boost your preparation with our Atoms and Nuclei Notes. These notes cover the entire JEE Main Physics syllabus; you can download them for FREE.


Atoms and Nuclei JEE Main 2026: Important Topics

Here are a few important topics students should consider when learning the Atoms and Nuclei chapter. These subjects are selected from previous years' JEE Main exams. Therefore, before you get the Revision notes, you can review this list of significant topics from Atoms and Nuclei.


  • Bohr's Model of the Atom

  • Hydrogen Spectrum

  • Quantum Numbers

  • Electronic Configuration

  • Pauli Exclusion Principle

  • Aufbau Principle and Hund's Rule

  • Isotopes and Isobars

  • Radioactivity

  • Nuclear Reactions

  • Binding Energy

  • Mass Defect

  • Nuclear Models

  • Radioactive Decay Law

  • Nuclear Reactors


Power of Equations: How Formulas Amplify Revision Notes Learning

Equations aren't just symbols; They are your key to solving problems in physics. By grasping formulas, you'll tackle complex concepts effortlessly and improves your confidence. Dive into the world of equations along with JEE Main Physics Revision notes and amplify your study sessions. Explore our JEE Physics formula pages to prepare for JEE Main today!


Below are the few Important Formuals from this chapter for your reference.


1. Mass-Energy Equivalence:  

$E = mc^2 $

where E is energy, m is mass, and c is the speed of light.


2. Radius of Nucleus:  

$R = R_0 A^{1/3} $

where R is the nuclear radius, $R_0 $ is a constant $(1.2 \times 10^{-15}$ m), and A is the mass number.


3. Binding Energy per Nucleon:  

$BE = \frac{E_{\text{binding}}}{A} $

where BE is the binding energy per nucleon, $E_{\text{binding}} $is the total binding energy, and A is the mass number.


4. Nuclear Decay Law (Radioactive Decay):  

$N = N_0 e^{-\lambda t} $

where N is the number of undecayed nuclei at time t, $N_0 $ is the initial number of nuclei, and $\lambda $ is the decay constant.


5. Half-Life Formula:  

$T_{1/2} = \frac{\ln(2)}{\lambda} $

where $T_{1/2} $is the half-life, and $\lambda $is the decay constant.


6. Activity of a Radioactive Sample:

$A = \lambda N $

where A is the activity, $\lambda $ is the decay constant, and N is the number of undecayed nuclei.


Why are Notes of Atoms and Nuclei Important for JEE Main 2026?

Mastering Notes of Atoms and Nuclei is vital for JEE Main 2026 as it forms the foundation for understanding fundamental concepts in physics and ensures success in the exam. Let’s explore how Vedantu can be your perfect guide for JEE Main preparation:


  1. Crucial for JEE Main Success: Mastery of the Atoms and Nuclei chapter is crucial for success in JEE Main, where a deep understanding of atomic and nuclear concepts is tested extensively.

  2. Confident Problem Solving: Vedantu aids students in mastering fundamental concepts of Atoms and Nuclei for JEE Main, empowering them to confidently solve complex problems related to atomic structure and nuclear processes.

  3. Encouragement to Explore Further: Vedantu's Atoms and Nuclei resources not only cover the essentials for JEE Main but also encourage students to explore additional problems and practice extensively, with these sample papers promoting a comprehensive understanding.

  4. Embrace Mastery for Rewarding Feeling: Students who embrace mastery of the Atoms and Nuclei chapter with Vedantu experience a rewarding feeling, setting themselves on a path to success in JEE Main.

  5. Pivotal Notes for JEE Main 2026: Vedantu provides pivotal notes on Atoms and Nuclei, serving as a foundation for understanding complex topics related to atomic structure, nuclear processes, and radioactivity, crucial for JEE Main 2026.

  6. Confidence Building for Candidates: With Vedantu's guidance, candidates can confidently tackle main questions related to atomic and nuclear phenomena in the JEE main exam, ensuring a solid grasp of fundamental principles for success in 2026.


Here are the major features of the chapter Atoms and Nuclei:

  • The chapter covers the structure of the atom, including the subatomic particles, the nucleus, and the electron cloud.

  • It also discusses nuclear physics, which is the study of the nucleus of the atom. This includes topics such as nuclear reactions, radioactivity, and nuclear fusion.

  • The chapter also covers the binding energy of the nucleus, which is the energy that holds the nucleus together.


Here are some of the specific topics that are covered in the chapter:

  • Rutherford's gold foil experiment

  • Bohr's model of the atom

  • Atomic spectra

  • Isotopes, isobars, and isotones

  • Radioactivity

  • Nuclear fission

  • Nuclear fusion

  • Binding energy


These topics are important for JEE Main aspirants because they are likely to be tested in the exam. In addition, they provide a foundation for understanding more advanced topics in physics, such as nuclear physics and particle physics.


Benefits of Learning Atoms and Nuclei for JEE Mains with Vedantu’s Notes 

  • Vedantu’s notes cover key topics in Atoms and Nuclei, like atomic models, nuclear reactions, and radioactivity, making complex ideas easier to understand.

  • Important formulas and tips in these notes help students solve various types of JEE problems effectively, saving time during revision.

  • Created by subject experts, Vedantu's notes ensure accurate and relevant content that aligns perfectly with the JEE Mains syllabus.

  • Vedantu’s FREE downloadable PDF format allows students to study and review Atoms and Nuclei on the go, making preparation flexible.

  • With detailed explanations and examples, these notes build strong problem-solving skills for questions on atomic structure, nuclear forces, and decay.

  • Learning with Vedantu’s structured notes helps students gain confidence in their understanding of Atoms and Nuclei, ensuring they’re well-prepared for exam day.


Here are some tips for studying the chapter Atoms and Nuclei:

  • Start by understanding the basic concepts of atomic structure and nuclear physics.

  • Then, focus on the specific topics that are likely to be tested in the exam.

  • Practice solving problems related to these topics.

  • Use online resources, such as Vedantu, to get help if you are stuck.


By following these tips, you can be sure to master the material in the chapter Atoms and Nuclei and be well-prepared for the JEE Main exam.


Check Other Important Links for JEE Main 2026 Atoms and Nuclei 

Explore additional resources beyond JEE Main 2026 Atoms and Nuclei notes. Check out these other useful links that provide access to learning materials, practice papers, mock tests, and valuable insights. Enhance your preparation, overcome difficulties, and welcome achievement with these resources designed specifically for JEE Main 2026.



JEE 2026 Physics Notes: Get Chapter-wise Links Here

Access organized JEE 2026 Physics Notes with convenient chapter-wise links. Dive into essential topics, understand key concepts, and prepare effectively for your exams. Get the edge you need with these focused notes.



Download Subject-wise Notes for JEE Main 

Get the links to download the subject-wise JEE Main Notes PDF for FREE from the table below.


S. No

Subject

Revision Notes PDF

1.

Maths

JEE Main Maths Revision Notes

2.

Chemistry

JEE Main Chemistry Revision Notes

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FAQs on Atoms and Nuclei: Key Concepts, Formulas & Quick Revision

1. What are atoms and nuclei in class 12 physics?

Atoms are the smallest parts of an element, consisting of a nucleus and electron cloud. The nucleus contains protons and neutrons, which define the atom’s mass number and properties. Class 12 physics covers both atomic structure and nuclear properties like radioactivity and binding energy for deeper understanding.

2. What are the key differences between an atom and its nucleus?

The atom includes the nucleus (protons and neutrons) and electrons, while the nucleus itself is just the central core. Key differences are:

  • Atom: Protons + neutrons (nucleus) + electrons
  • Nucleus: Only protons and neutrons
  • Size: Atom is much larger than its nucleus
  • Charge: Nucleus is positively charged, atom is neutral

3. What is Bohr’s atomic model and why is it important?

Bohr’s atomic model describes electrons revolving around the nucleus in fixed orbits with quantised energies. It is crucial for:

  • Explaining atomic spectra
  • Introducing energy levels (shells)
  • Addressing the stability of atoms
  • Laying foundation for further quantum models

4. What are the main types of radioactive decay?

The three main types of radioactive decay are:

  • Alpha (α) decay: Emission of an alpha particle (2 protons + 2 neutrons)
  • Beta (β) decay: Emission of an electron or positron
  • Gamma (γ) decay: Release of gamma radiation (high-energy photons)

These decay types change the nuclear composition and energy state, and are central to exam questions.

5. What is nuclear binding energy and how is it calculated?

Nuclear binding energy is the energy required to split a nucleus into protons and neutrons. It is calculated using:

  • Binding energy (E) = Mass defect (Δm) × c², where c is the speed of light

This concept explains nuclear stability and is frequently tested with formulas and numericals.

6. Which diagrams are important in Atoms and Nuclei for JEE?

Important diagrams for JEE physics include:

  • Rutherford’s scattering experiment setup
  • Bohr’s atom model (depicting electron orbits)
  • Energy level diagrams
  • Alpha, beta, gamma decay schematics

Practising labelled diagrams boosts scoring in board and competitive exams.

7. How are numericals on radioactive decay solved in board and JEE exams?

Numericals on radioactive decay use formulas like:

  • N = N₀e-λt (decay law)
  • Half-life (T1/2) = 0.693/λ
  • Practice steps: Identify known values, pick the right formula, solve stepwise and include units.

8. Where can I download atoms and nuclei revision notes PDF?

You can easily find atoms and nuclei revision notes PDF on top study websites, such as academic portals or exam preparation sites. Search for terms like "atoms and nuclei class 12 notes PDF" or "JEE atomic structure revision notes PDF" for syllabus-aligned resources.

9. What are isotopes and isobars? How are they different?

Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different neutron numbers (same protons). Isobars are atoms of different elements with the same mass number but different atomic numbers. Key differences:

  • Isotopes: Same atomic number, different mass numbers
  • Isobars: Same mass number, different atomic numbers

10. Why is nuclear binding energy per nucleon used instead of total binding energy?

Nuclear binding energy per nucleon gives the average stability of a nucleon in the nucleus, allowing comparison across different nuclei regardless of size. It is more relevant for exam questions on nuclear fusion, fission, and stability trends.

11. Are electrons ever found inside the nucleus?

Electrons are generally not located inside the nucleus. They revolve around the nucleus in shells/orbits. Exceptionally, in some rare processes like electron capture, an inner electron combines with a proton to form a neutron, but under normal conditions, electrons stay outside the nucleus.

12. Does radioactivity depend on external conditions?

Radioactivity is intrinsic to the nucleus and does not depend on external factors like temperature or pressure. The decay rate remains constant regardless of physical changes in the atom’s environment, which is a frequently asked board and JEE question.