Isotopolis

Functionality & Mechanism

This educational physics game from Michigan State University simulates the process of rare isotope creation. The interface challenges players to accelerate, steer, and collide particles to assemble new isotopes, completing a virtual table of nuclides. This interactive model guides users through the principles of fragmentation and particle physics, leveraging game mechanics to illustrate the complex scientific processes that occur within a cyclotron accelerator. The application is free and contains no in-app purchases.

Development & Context

• The game was a collaborative project between Michigan State University's Games for Entertainment and Learning (GEL) Lab and its National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory.
• The news coverage highlights its primary goal is to build foundational knowledge of nuclear science and promote interest in STEM subjects.
• Its gameplay is directly inspired by the nanoscopic processes that take place inside a real-world particle accelerator.
• Development received support from multiple institutions, including the National Science Foundation and the American Physical Society.

Intended Use & Scope

Isotopolis is designed as an educational tool for an audience with a middle-school level understanding of science. Its purpose is to introduce foundational concepts in nuclear science and provide accessible context for the mission of a national laboratory. The information is intended to support learning objectives and is based on public news coverage.