NST2601 ASSIGNMENT 3 ANSWERS 2025

NST2601
ASSIGNMENT 3
ANSWERS 2025




NST2601 ASSIGNMENT 3 ANSWERS
2025

, NST2601 ASSIGNMENT NUMBER 03

ASSIGNMENT DUE DATE: 26 JULY 2025




QUESTION 1 [30 MARKS]*



1.1 Define the following: (20)



a. Particle: In physics, a particle is a small localized object to which can be ascribed
several physical or chemical properties such as volume, density or mass. They are
often idealized points with negligible volume. The precise definition depends on the
context (e.g., a particle in chemistry can be a molecule or atom). The key is that its
behavior is generally described using classical or quantum mechanics.



b. Atomic model: A conceptual representation of an atom's structure and behavior.
Atomic models aim to explain the properties and interactions of atoms based on the
current understanding of physics and chemistry. Models have evolved over time
(e.g., Dalton's model, Thomson's plum pudding model, Rutherford's nuclear model,
Bohr's model, the quantum mechanical model). They provide a simplified way to
visualize and understand the complex arrangement of subatomic particles.



c. Subatomic: Relating to or being a particle smaller than an atom. Common
subatomic particles include protons, neutrons, and electrons. These particles are
the building blocks of atoms.



d. Protons: Positively charged subatomic particles located in the nucleus of an atom.
The number of protons determines the element's atomic number and identity.