Reading a nucleus
Reading a nucleus
A nucleus is written as ZAX_{Z}^{A}\text{X}ZAX. The mass number AAA is the total number of protons and neutrons, while the atomic number ZZZ is the number of protons and identifies the element.
Step-by-step lessons on Edexcel GCSE Physics 6.3 Nuclear equations and decay. Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Master the required practical work and core equations early, since both papers can draw on content and maths skills from across the whole specification.