Nuclear Fusion

Spatial concepts:
nucleus, radiation

This simple and engaging astronomy activity explains nuclear fusion and how radiation is generated by stars, using marshmallows as a model. Learners will explore what cosmic radiation is and where it comes from, and how the elements in the universe are generated. The PDF contains step-by-step instructions, photos, presentation tips, links to background information, and a printable Periodic Table of the Elements.

Resource URL: 
http://nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov/docs/SNNuclearFusion.pdf
Publisher: 
Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Creator: 
Astronomical Society of the Pacific
Cataloged by: 
SMILE Pathway: Science and Math Activities in One Search
Subject(s): 
astronomy
nuclear fusion
elements
star
periodic table
cosmic radiation
universe
electromagnetic spectrum
marshmallow
helium
proton
nucleus
atom
hydrogen
energy
gamma-ray
carbon
Food and Cooking
Earth and Space Science
Astronomy
Origins of Universe
Earth and Space Science
Astronomy
Stars and Galaxies
Earth and Space Science
Solar System
Origin of Solar System
Physical Sciences
Heat and Thermodynamics
Heat and Temperature
Physical Sciences
Energy
Energy and Power
Physical Sciences
Nuclear Chemistry
Physical Sciences
Light and Optics
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Physical Sciences
Structure and Properties of Matter
Atomic Structure
Physical Sciences
Structure and Properties of Matter
Elements and Periodic Table
Physical Sciences
Structure and Properties of Matter
Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics
Space Science
Physics
Chemistry
Resource type(s): 
Instructional Material
Activity
Simulation
Ed level(s): 
Elementary School
Upper Elementary
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Informal Education
Elementary School Programming
Middle School
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
Middle School Programming
High School
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
High School Programming
General Public
Audience(s): 
Learner
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Language(s): 
English