Nuclear Science


Resources
- Nuclear Science Class Preparation Page
- Nuclear Science Workbook
- Scoutmaster Bucky's Merit Badge Advancement Quick Reference
- Scoutmaster Bucky's Acknowledgement Form
Related
Nuclear Science Requirements Current Scouts BSA requirements
as of March 8, 2025
as of March 8, 2025
1.
Do the following:
a.
Explain radiation and the difference between ionizing and nonionizing
radiation.
b.
Explain the ALARA principle and the measures required by law to
minimize these risks. Describe what safety requirements you will need
to consider while performing the requirements in this merit badge.
c.
Describe the radiation hazard symbol and explain where it should be
used.
d.
Explain how we are exposed to ionizing radiation from outside the earth
as well as on earth every day. List four examples of Naturally
Occurring Radioactive Materials, NORM, that are in your house or
grocery store and explain why they are radioactive.
e.
Explain the difference between radiation exposure and contamination.
Describe the hazards of radiation to humans, the environment, and
wildlife. Calculate your approximate annual radiation dose and compare
to that of someone who works in a nuclear power plant.
2.
Do the following:
a.
Explain the following terms: atom, nucleus, proton, neutron, electron,
quark, isotope; alpha particle, beta particle, gamma ray, X-ray;
ionization, radioactivity, radioisotope, stability.
b.
Choose an element from the periodic table. Construct 3-D models for the
atoms of three isotopes of this element, showing neutrons, protons, and
electrons. Write down the isotope notation for each model including the
atomic and mass numbers. In a separate model or diagram, explain or
show how quarks make up protons and neutrons.
3.
Do ONE of the following; then discuss modern particle physics with your
counselor:
a.
Visit an accelerator, research lab, or university where scientists
study the properties of the nucleus or nucleons.
b.
List three particle accelerators and describe several experiments that
each accelerator performs, including basic science and practical
applications.
4.
Do TWO of the following; then discuss with your counselor:
a.
Build an electroscope. Show how it works. Place a radiation source
inside and explain the effect it causes.
b.
Make a cloud chamber. Show how it can be used to see the tracks caused
by radiation. Explain what is happening.
c.
Perform an experiment demonstrating half-life. Discuss decay chains.
5.
Do ONE of the following; then discuss with your counselor the principles of
radiation safety:
a.
Using a radiation survey meter and a radioactive source, show how the
counts per minute change as the source gets closer to or farther from
the radiation detector. Place three different materials between the
source and the detector, then explain any differences in the
measurements per minute. Explain how time, distance, and shielding can
reduce an individual's radiation dose.
b.
Describe how radon is detected in homes. Discuss the steps taken for
the long-term and short-term test methods, tell how to interpret the
results, and explain when each type of test should be used. Explain the
health concern related to radon gas and tell what steps can be taken to
reduce radon in buildings.
c.
Visit a place where X-rays are used. Draw a floor plan of this room.
Show where the unit, the unit operator, and the patient would be when
the X-ray unit is operated. Explain the precautions taken and the
importance of those precautions.
6.
Do ONE of the following; then discuss with your counselor how nuclear
energy is used to produce electricity:
a.
Make a drawing showing how nuclear fission happens. Observe a mousetrap
reactor (setup by an adult) and use it to explain how a chain reaction
could be started. Explain how a chain reaction could be stopped or
controlled in a nuclear reactor. Explain what is meant by a "critical
mass."
b.
Visit a local nuclear power plant or nuclear reactor either in person
or online (with your parent or guardian's permission). Learn how a
reactor works and how the plant generates electricity. Find out what
percentage of electricity in the United States is generated by nuclear
power plants, by coal, and by gas.
7.
Give an example of each of the following in relation to how energy from an
atom can be used: nuclear medicine, environmental applications, industrial
applications, space exploration, and radiation therapy. For each example,
explain the application and its significance to nuclear science.
8.
Find out about three career opportunities in nuclear science that interest
you. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required
for this profession and discuss this with your counselor. Tell why this
profession interests you.