2020-2021 / GENU2001-1

Introduction to nuclear physics and measurements

Duration

24,5h Th, 6h Pr

Number of credits

 Specialised master in nuclear engineering3 crédits 

Lecturer

N...

Language(s) of instruction

English language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the first semester, review in January

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

  • Nuclear properties (nuclear radius; mass and abundance of nuclides; nuclear binding
    energy; nuclear exited states)
  • Elementary introduction to nuclear models (drop, shell & collective models)
  • Radioactive decay: radioactive decay law, radioactive mother-daughter chains, natural
    radioactive chains, types of radioactive decay, units of radioactivity
  • Alpha decay
  • Beta decay
  • Gamma decay
  • Types of nuclear reactions: compound nucleus, threshold reactions, concept of cross
    section
  • Interaction of neutrons with matter; general considerations (elastic & inelastic scattering; thermalisation, radiative capture, ...)
  • Theory of nuclear fission, controlled chain reaction, physical principles of fission reactors

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

  • To learn and understand the basic properties of a nucleus
  • To understand the role of conservation laws in decay processes and reactions
  • To learn the principles of nuclear physics related to fission and fusion.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

Bachelor level lectures on physics, mechanics, mathematics.
REFERENCE BOOKS ON PREREQUISITE
See website www.sckcen.be/bnen
Brochures and Info Background books W.
D'haeseleer (mathematics)

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)

  • 1 t.m. (3 ECTS ; 24h contact, including 1 seminar and exercise)
  • SCK*CEN guidance: 10 hours lab (included in "Radiation protection and measurements")

Organisational adjustments related to the current health context

Recommended or required readings

  • Krane, K.S. "Introductory Nuclear Physics", John Wiley, 1987.
  • Heyde, K. "Basic ideas and concepts in nuclear physics: an introductory approach",
    IOP, 1994

Assessment methods and criteria

Below you will find information on the evaluation methods planned for in-person and remote exams as well as those planned for hybrid sessions. Depending on how the health crisis evolves, the chosen method will be communicated to you no later than one month before the start of the exam session.

Work placement(s)

Organizational remarks

Contacts

Michel Bruggeman: michel.bruggeman@sckcen.be