Nuclear physics, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course gives thorough theoretical and experimental knowledge on atomic nucleus, production of radioactive nuclei and decay and gives a good base for further studies in nuclear and radiation physics and within the field of nuclear energy.
The course contents in more detail:
Nuclear models, experimental methods for determination of the nuclear radius, nuclear charge and matter distribution. The range of nuclear force, nuclear binding energy and neutron and proton separation energies.
Further in the course: different decay types and serial decay including the relevant equations. Decay types discussed in the course are: beta-minus, beta-plus, alpha, electron capture, conversion electrons, gamma emission, proton and neutron emission. Theories for beta and alpha decay. Absorption of atomic electrons by the nucleus. Transfer of excess energy from the nucleus to the atomic electrons. Production of radionuclides, bremsstrahlung, characteristic photons and Auger electrons. An introduction to non-destructive study of radioactive samples using gamma spectroscopy. Further included in the course is fission and the energy gain from fission. Different types of accelerators, relevant to nuclear physics, is discussed. The course also includes neutrons, their role in fission and in production of radio nuclides.
The course includes a mandatory laboratory session.

The course comprises three elements
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: Quantum physics 4.5 ECTS, or corresponding. Recommended 7.5 ECTS electronics.

Form of instruction

The teaching is conducted with lectures, calculation training and supervised laboratory work. Laboratory work is mandatory.

Examination modes

Part 1: Theoretical part 2.5 credits
The part is examined with written exam. The grade is  assessed with Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Credit (4) or Pass with Distinction (5).

Part 2: Calculation part 2.5 credits.
The part is examined with written exam. The grade is assessed with Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Credit (4) or Pass with Distinction (5).

Part 3: Laboration 2.5 credits.
The part 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 (3), Pass with merit (4) or Pass with distinction (5). The grade is based on the grades received on part 1 and 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.

Students who do not pass the regular examination renewed examination in accordance with the Umeå University Regulations for tests and examinations at the undergraduate and graduate level (FS 1.1.2-553-14) could be arranged. The first re-test is offered not later than two months after the first examination. When the ordinary examination takes place in May or June, d a first retesting opportunity is given within three months after the first examination. In addition, at least another re-test within one year of regular examination is offered.

In cases where the exam can not be repeated under the current rules for retesting the exam should instead be replaced with another task. The scope and content of such task should not be disproportionate to the missed exam.

A student who has taken two examinations in a course or part of a course without passing, has the right to have another examiner appointed, unless there are specific reasons against it (6 ch. 22, § HF). Requests for new examiners should be addressed to the head of the Department of Radiation Sciences.

Other regulations

In the event that the course expires or major changes are introduced, the students are assured at least three occasions of examination (including regular examination) as prescribed in the syllabus to the course that the student originally registered in over a period of a maximum of two years from the previous syllabus expired.