Which of the following branch of Physics deal with study of Atomic Nuclei?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Explanation

Nuclear Physics is the field of physics that studies atomic nuclei and their constituents and interactions.
The term 'nuclear' directly refers to the nucleus of the atom.
This branch covers phenomena such as radioactivity, nuclear fission, and nuclear fusion, all of which originate from processes within the atomic nucleus.
It is distinct from Atomic Physics, which focuses on the atom as a whole, particularly the electrons surrounding the nucleus.

Option B: Bio Physics applies the principles of physics to biological systems. Its focus is on living organisms and processes, not the subatomic level of the nucleus.
Option C: Atomic Physics studies the atom as an entire system, but its primary focus is on the properties and behavior of the electrons in the electron shells that surround the nucleus.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct answer, Nuclear Physics, is listed as one of the choices.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Branches of Physics as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a physics question, Nuclear Physics has profound applications in medicine, which are highly relevant to nursing.
Nuclear medicine uses radioactive isotopes (radioisotopes) for diagnosis and treatment. Nurses may care for patients undergoing PET scans, SPECT scans, or thyroid scans, which all rely on principles of nuclear physics.
Radiotherapy for cancer, using machines like a linear accelerator or Cobalt-60 units, is a direct application of nuclear physics to destroy malignant cells. Nurses play a key role in managing patients undergoing radiation treatment.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core subject of the question, which is 'study of Atomic Nuclei'.
Analyze the options provided. Look for the term that most directly relates to 'nuclei'.
The term 'Nuclear' is the adjectival form of 'nucleus'. This provides a strong clue that 'Nuclear Physics' is the correct answer.
Differentiate this from 'Atomic Physics'. Recall that 'atomic' refers to the entire atom, which includes the nucleus and the surrounding electrons. Since the question is specific to the nucleus, 'Atomic Physics' is too broad.
Eliminate 'Bio Physics' as 'bio' relates to life and biology, which is not the focus here.
Conclude that Nuclear Physics is the most precise and correct term for the study of the atomic nucleus.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Textbook of Biochemistry for medical StudentsDM Vasudevan Part 2 — Subpart B (pp 240-463 of 478) p. 176-178

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2021 Shift-2nd

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.