MCAT Physical

A comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics as tested on the MCAT, including mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and more.

Kinematics and MotionForces and Newton's LawsWork, Energy, and PowerThermodynamics and Heat
Electricity and MagnetismFluids and PressureWaves, Sound, and LightAtomic and Nuclear Physics
Medical Imaging and DiagnosticsBiomechanics and Human MovementEnergy Use and Everyday Technology
Mastering MCAT Physics QuestionsTime Management and Guessing Smart
Kinematics and Motio...Forces and Newton's ...Work, Energy, and Po...Thermodynamics and H...Electricity and Magn...Fluids and PressureWaves, Sound, and Li...Atomic and Nuclear P...Medical Imaging and ...Biomechanics and Hum...Energy Use and Every...Mastering MCAT Physi...Time Management and ...
Advanced Topics

Atomic and Nuclear Physics

Exploring the Smallest Building Blocks

Atomic and nuclear physics study how atoms work and what happens when their nuclei change.

Key Topics

  • Structure of the Atom: Protons, neutrons, electrons.
  • Radioactivity: Alpha, beta, gamma decay.
  • Nuclear Reactions: Fission, fusion, and their energy.

Practical Sides

  • PET scans use positron emission.
  • Cancer treatments often use radiation.

MCAT Emphasis

Understand how to balance nuclear equations and the basics of radioactive decay.

Examples

  • Interpreting the results of a radioactive tracer in medicine.

  • Calculating half-life in a nuclear decay problem.

In a Nutshell

Atomic and nuclear physics explain the behavior of atoms and the power of nuclear energy.

Key Terms

Isotope
Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
Half-life
Time required for half a radioactive sample to decay.
Next
Medical Imaging and Diagnostics
Atomic and Nuclear Physics - MCAT Physical Content | Practice Hub