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The Atomic Structure and Radioactivity topic explores how our understanding of the atom has developed and how unstable nuclei emit radiation. This page includes all my free GCSE Atomic Structure and Radioactivity video lessons, practice questions, and answers to help you master this fascinating part of physics.
You’ll find lessons covering the history of the atom, isotopes, types of nuclear radiation, half-life, radioactive decay, and radiation safety. Each video and worksheet follows the AQA, OCR, and Edexcel GCSE and IGCSE Physics specifications, making them ideal for revision or classroom learning.
You can also explore related topics such as Particle Model of Matter and Waves to see how atomic theory connects to particle behaviour and electromagnetic radiation.
Watch my free GCSE Physics Atomic Structure and Radioactivity video lessons below. Each video breaks down complex ideas into simple explanations, using diagrams, animations, and exam-style examples to build your confidence.
Topics include:
The development of the atomic model
Structure of the atom and isotopes
Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation
Half-life and radioactive decay
Hazards and safety precautions when working with radiation
Test your knowledge with these GCSE Atomic Structure and Radioactivity practice questions. Designed for AQA, OCR, and Edexcel GCSE Physics students, they include a mix of multiple-choice and structured calculation problems.
You’ll apply key ideas such as balancing nuclear equations, interpreting decay graphs, and calculating half-life — essential skills for exam success.
Check your answers here. Each question includes a fully worked solution with clear explanations, showing how to approach nuclear equations, calculate activity and half-life, and explain safety precautions in context.
These worked answers help you understand where marks are awarded and how to write clear, complete exam responses.
In this video I look at the development of the models of the atom. This includes the Plum Pudding model and Rutherford's scattering experiment.
What are sub-atomic particles, ions and isotopes? This lesson explains each with examples.
In this short video I explain what absorption and emission spectra are and how they are formed.
What is alpha and beta decay and how do they change the structure of nuclei? Here we take a look at radioactive decay with examples.There is also an extra video and questions on this topic at the bottom of this list.
Some GCSE and IGCSE courses require you to understand beta + decay. In this video I explain it with examples.
Do you know how to balance the radioactive decay equations for alpha and beta decay?
© Copyright, Plato Education 2025-2026