Nuclear physics, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course deals with the atomic nucleus and the forces acting in the nucleus. Quantum theoretical methods for different types of radioactive decay are also discussed. Various accelerators relevant to studies of the nucleus are covered. Energy extraction via fission is also addressed. The course includes the following:
Nuclear cross-sections. Fermis Golden Rule. Nuclear models, classical and quantum mechanical methods for the determination of the nuclei radius and the charge and matter distribution of the nucleus. Nuclear forces, nuclear binding energy and separation energies for neutrons and protons.

Furthermore, the course covers various types of decays, series decays and the equations describing these. Decay types that are included are beta-minus, beta-plus, alpha, electron capture, conversion electrons, gamma emission, proton and neutron emission. Beta, alpha and gamma decay are treated quantum mechanically. Production of radionuclides, bremsstrahlung, characteristic photons and Auger electrons are included. The course also provides an introduction to non-destructive studies of samples by gamma spectroscopy. Further, fission and energy extraction through fission are discussed. Various types of accelerators, relevant for nucleus studies, are covered. The course includes a compulsory laboratory part.

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: At least 90 ECTS including Quantum physics 6 ECTS, or corresponding.

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.