Part 1: Evaluate Three Models (9 points) First, evaluate these three models. One represents fission, one fusion, and one radioactive decay. Write three sentences about each one according to the following framework:
State what reaction the model represents, including what it demonstrates about mass and/or energy.
State whether you think the model accurately represents the reaction. Explain why or why not.
Suggest one way to improve the model.

Model A: Two sponge balls representing two atoms are soaked in water. You hold one ball, and your friend holds the other. Then you press the two balls together. As you press them together, water leaks out. What type of reaction does this model represent?

Model B: You draw a tree diagram showing a large atom splitting into two parts and neutrons being released. Your diagram also shows the released neutrons hitting other large atoms, which then each split in two and release more neutrons, which hit more large atoms, and so on. What type of reaction does this model represent?
Model C: You have 100 candies with the letter "M" on one side. You pour the candies into a pan. You count and remove all the candies with the "M" facing upward. Then you shake the pan and again count and remove all the candies with "M" facing upward. You shake, count, and remove candies four more times. What type of reaction does this model represent?
Part 2: Design Models of Nuclear Reactions (16 points)
Now choose two nuclear reactions you want to model and compare. Here are the possible types you can choose from:
nuclear fission
nuclear fusion
alpha decay
beta decay
gamma decay
Develop your own ideas for more accurate models. Do an online search for valid and reliable scientific information about the reactions you choose. Then apply what you learn to develop your model. Try to represent scientific reality as accurately as you can with your model's materials, presentation, or pictures. As you do your research and imagine the design of your model, think about these questions:
How can you show all the changes that occur when the reactions change the nuclei of atoms?
How can you represent the types and relative amounts of energy given off by the reactions?
Would you prefer to work electronically, make a physical model, or produce a colorful poster? Or do you have a different idea for how to create your models?
1. Research specific examples of the nuclear reactions you want to model. As part of your research, find ways that other people have modeled the reactions. Identify each source you used and determine its credibility and reliability. Write a citation for any books, journals, websites, or video links that you used in your research. (10 points)
2. Brainstorm ideas for visual or physical ways that you could show and compare the changes in mass and energy that occur in the reactions you want to model. List at least three creative ideas that you think could work for your models. These ideas may be based on others' models or your imagination, but do not simply copy a model someone else has created. (6 points)
Develop a plan for making your models. Submit a written description of the plan to your teacher for approval before continuing to Part 3.
Part 3: Make Your Models (20 points)
After your project plan is approved, carry it out by making and testing your models.
Write a five-paragraph report about your models — one paragraph for each of the items on this list. Submit this report to your teacher.
Describe your final design, including a list of the materials you used, and include photos or videos of your models.
How do the models represent the particles involved in the reactions?
How do the models represent the energy emitted by the reactions?
Describe how well each model worked: Did it accurately demonstrate your chosen type of nuclear reaction? What were its limitations?
Identify and describe ways you could improve your models.
Part 4: Compare Nuclear Reactions (5 points)
Write a paragraph that compares the two types of nuclear reactions that you modeled. Use your models as evidence to support your statements about how the nuclear reactions are similar and how they are different. Submit this paragraph to your teacher along with the report describing your models.