Atomic Models and Nuclear Structure Explained for Exams
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.

















