Nuclear Physics for Pedestrians
Syllabus, Bachelor's level, 1FA319
- Code
- 1FA319
- Education cycle
- First cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Physics G1N
- Grading system
- Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with credit (4), Pass with distinction (5)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 13 March 2014
- Responsible department
- Department of Physics and Astronomy
Entry requirements
General entry requirements
Learning outcomes
This course is intended for all curious persons who would like to learn the basics of nuclear physics and be able to use this knowledge for understanding of the principles of the most common nuclear physics applications in the society.
After the course has been completed the student should be able to
- use basic concepts of nuclear physics,
- describe the basic principles of the most common nuclear physics applications in the society: nuclear energy, radiation therapy and nuclear medicine,
- use nuclear data bases available on Internet to search for information about the properties of nuclides,
- write short reports about different applications of nuclear physics.
Content
Basic nuclear physics: Nuclides, isotopes, nuclear mass, binding energy and stability, radioactive decays, natural and artificial radioactivity, nuclear reactions.
Radiation physics: Ionising radiation, different dose concepts, quality factors, radiation biology, our radiation environment.
Nuclear energy: Fission reactors, reactor accidents, nuclear fuel processes, transmutation of nuclear waste, fusion research
Medical applications: different methods for radiation therapy and diagnostics in nuclear medicine.
Other applications, for example radiometric dating, methods for analysis of materials, synthesis of nuclei in the Universe.
Instruction
An introduction day with lectures in the beginning of the course, computer-aided self studies, study visits.
Assessment
The examination consists of hand-in exercises, projects and study visit reports.