Summary
This section of the textbook provides an in-depth exploration of nuclear physics and radioactivity. It covers the fundamental structure of the nucleus, the roles of the strong nuclear force, and the concept of mass defect and binding energy. A detailed analysis of various types of radioactive decay—including alpha, beta, and gamma decay—is presented, along with the underlying conservation laws governing these processes. The chapter further illustrates practical applications such as radiocarbon dating, medical procedures, and radiation detection techniques, emphasizing the real-world significance of these nuclear processes.