Objectives:
- 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
List of topics:
- Nuclear properties (nuclear radius; mass abundance of nuclides; nuclear binding energy; nuclear exited states)
- Elementary intro 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; concept of cross section
- Interaction of neutrons with matter; general considerations
(compound nucleus; elastic & inelastic scattering; radiative capture, …)
- Theory of nuclear fission
Reference:
Krane, K.S. "Introductory Nuclear Physics", John Wiley, 1987
Heyde, K. "Basic ideas and concepts in nuclear physics: an introductory approach", IOP, 1994
Amplitude and teaching methods:
- 1 t.m.
- SCK•CEN guidance: 10 hours lab.