Nuclear physics, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course deals with the atomic nucleus, its structure, how to experimentally study the atomic nucleus and applications of nuclear physics such as e.g. energy extraction through fission. Important tools for studying the atomic nucleus, such as cross-sections, are introduced and various forms of decay are treated in detail. Models for the structure of the atomic nucleus and important concepts such as binding energy are also introduced. An overview of particle accelerators and fission-based nuclear power is included. The course also contains a mandatory laboratory part.

The course comprises three modules
1. Theory, 2.5 ECTS
2. Calculation, 2.5 ECTS
3. Laboratory, 2.5 ECTS

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
Briefly describe the nuclear structure 
Describe different types of decays and theories behind these.
Explain the various components that contribute to the nuclear binding energy.
Explain the source of characteristic photons and auger electrons.
Describe the different types of accelerators used in nuclear physics.
Describe how energy can be extracted through fission. 
 
Skills and Abilities
Be able to calculate the Q value for different types of decays and set up and solve the equations for serial decays.
Determine decay data from tabulated values. 
Analyse and interpret gamma spectra.
Calculate nuclear parameters, such as nuclear radius, bond energy and separation energies.
Calculate the energy that is extracted through fission. 
 
Judgement and approach
Show ability to communicate and collaborate with other participants in laboratory work and similar group moments.
Reflect on experimental and theoretical results and analyse them in terms of reasonableness.

Required Knowledge

University: At least 90 ECTS including Quantum physics 6 ECTS, or corresponding. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A/6. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The teaching is campus based and conducted with lectures, calculation training and supervised laboratory work. Laboratory work is mandatory. The language of instruction is Swedish or English
 

Examination modes

Module 1: Theory  2.5 credits
The module is examined with written exam. The grade is assessed with Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with merit (VG),

Module  2: Calculation 2.5 credits.
The module is examined with written exam. The grade is assessed with Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with merit (VG).

Module 3: Laboratory work 2.5 credits.
The module is examined with written laboratory report. The grade is assessed with Fail (U) or Pass (G).

On the course as a whole the potential grades are Fail (U), Pass (G), Pass with merit (VG). The grade is based on the results received on module 1 and 2, where module 1 is given a weighting factor of 1/2 and module 2 a weighting factor of 1/2 and will not be given until all obligatory modules have been approved. 

Students who received a passing grade on an examination may not retake the examination.
 
Deviations from the course syllabus examination form can be made for a student who has a decision on pedagogical support due to disability. Individual adaptation of the examination form should be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form is adapted within the framework of the expected syllabus of the course syllabus. At the request of the student, the course responsible teacher, in consultation with the examiner, must promptly decide on the adapted examination form. The decision must then be communicated to the student.

A student who has passed two tests for a course or part of a course without a passing result, has the right to have another examiner appointed, unless there are special reasons against it (HF ch. 6 § 22). The request for a new examiner is made to the head of the Department of Radiation Sciences. For more information, see Rules for grades and examinations at basic and advanced level, dnr: FS 1.1-574-22.
 

Other regulations

In the event that the syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination opportunity) according to the regulations in the syllabus that the student was originally registered on for a period of a maximum of two years from the time that the previous syllabus ceased to apply or that the course ended.