Course content

This course describes models for the constituents and properties of nuclei, nuclear reactions and radioactivity, description of various mechanisms for interaction between ionizing radiation and matter, and introduction to radiation dosimetry. The course includes applications such as detection of radiation, analytical methods, nuclear power generation, environmental exposure to ionizing radiation, risk assessment, and radiation protection.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The candidate should have knowledge about:

• Constituents and properties of nuclei, nuclear reactions and accompanying radiations, as well as mechanisms for the interaction of radiation with matter.

This includes: nuclear models and nuclear properties, nuclear reactions, with emphasis on alpha, beta and gamma radiation related to strong, weak and electromagnetic interactions, mechanisms for the interaction of radiation with matter, radiation dosimetry, biological effects of ionizing radiation, radiation protection, nuclear power, fusion reactions, industrial and medical applications and nuclear methods and ionizing radiation.

Skills

The candidate should be able to:

• Find and use relevant tables and data to assess and evaluate the occurrence and effects of nuclear processes and ionizing radiation.
• Calculate radiation doses and evaluate health effects of ionizing radiation.
• Acquire spectroscopic data of beta and gamma radioactivity and the radiation's interaction with matter, using NaI and HPGe detectors combined with computer-based multichannel analysis.

General competence

The candidate should be able to:

• Analyze and interpret registered radiation spectra, and communicate the result of such investigations in writing.
• Interpret and present scientific data obtained during the practical work in the laboratory and group work.
• Read and present research literature.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, problem solving, mandatory laboratory assignments and mandatory project work with presentations. Teaching will be in English if students on international master programs are attending the course. Expected workload in the course is 225 hours.

Compulsory assignments

• Lab exercises
• Project work/presentation

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Course TFY4215, or equivalent.

Course materials

J. Lilley: Nuclear Physics, John Wiley og Sons, 2001. Some supplementary material.

Credit reductions