# Nuclear Models

Canonical: https://manyspace.aporia.systems/topics/nuclear-models-phy-nuclear-141
Updated: 2026-10-13

Physics · Nuclear Physics · PHY-NUCLEAR-141

- Difficulty: 4 / 5
- Importance: 4 / 5
- Study time: 6.5–12 h

liquid drop model, shell model, magic numbers

## Why it matters

Physics of the nucleus: binding energy, decay and reactions; underpins nuclear power, medicine, and understanding of stars and elements.

## Where it is used

Nuclear energy, radiation therapy, medical imaging (PET), radiocarbon dating, particle accelerators, nuclear safety.

## How you know you have learned it

Solve ≥10 representative problems with ≥80% adjusted accuracy.

## What you need first

- [Historical Foundations](https://manyspace.aporia.systems/topics/historical-foundations-phy-qm-105) (required)
- [Postulates & Simultaneity](https://manyspace.aporia.systems/topics/postulates-simultaneity-phy-sr-076) (helpful)

## Resources

- Introductory Nuclear Physics (Krane) — Kenneth Krane