GCSE Physics
Atomic Structure
Atomic Structure is a core strand in Physics. Work through the topics below in any order, or follow your course — each guide includes explanations, common mistakes and exam-style practice.
Topic guides
Atoms & Isotopes
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter.
Open guideRadioactivity (GCSE)
Radioactivity is the spontaneous decay of an unstable atomic nucleus, which results in the emission of radiation.
Open guideNuclear Radiation
Nuclear radiation is emitted from an unstable nucleus during radioactive decay.
Open guideHalf-Life
The half-life of a radioactive isotope is the time it takes for the number of unstable nuclei in a sample to halve, or the time it takes for the activity (the n
Open guideNuclear Fission & Fusion
Nuclear fission is the splitting of a large, unstable atomic nucleus (like uranium) into two smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy and several neut
Open guideContamination & Irradiation
Irradiation is the process of exposing an object to nuclear radiation.
Open guide
Revision strategy
Students often slip on the details explained in our guides — read the “common mistakes” section in each topic.
- Alternate between reading a guide and doing timed questions — don’t only re-read notes.
- Return to this hub anytime; new guides appear automatically as we publish them.