Binding Blocks: building the Universe one nucleus at the time

TL;DR

Binding Blocks is an innovative educational activity that uses a large LEGO-based chart to teach nuclear physics, astrophysics, and chemistry concepts through interactive, visual demonstrations of nuclear processes and element formation.

Contribution

It introduces a novel, hands-on teaching tool that visually and physically demonstrates complex nuclear and astrophysical phenomena for educational purposes.

Findings

Engages students with a large, interactive LEGO model of isotopes

Effectively illustrates nuclear decay, binding energy, and stellar fusion processes

Integrates multiple scientific curricula into a single outreach activity

Abstract

We present a new teaching and outreach activity based around the construction of a three-dimensional chart of isotopes using LEGO$^{\circledR}$ bricks. The activity, \emph{Binding Blocks}, demonstrates nuclear and astrophysical processes through a seven-meter chart of all nuclear isotopes, built from over 26,000 LEGO$^{\circledR}$ bricks. It integrates A-level and GCSE curricula across areas of nuclear physics, astrophysics, and chemistry, including: nuclear decays (through the colours in the chart); nuclear binding energy (through tower heights); production of chemical elements in the cosmos; fusion processes in stars and fusion energy on Earth; as well as links to medical physics, particularly diagnostics and radiotherapy.