PHYS 2154 Fundamentals Of Atomic and Nuclear Physics
Level: II
Semester: 2
No. of Credits: 3
Prerequisites: MATH 1115 (OR EQUIVALENT) OR PHYS 1224
Course Description
This course introduces students to the nature of atoms and is developed by examining the electronic structure of atoms. Central to this model is the interaction of atoms with light and electric and magnetic fields. We then delve further into the atom and examine the structure of the nucleus. The basic concepts and theories of nuclear physics are developed as well as an understanding of the applications of nuclear science. The course covers the physics of angular momentum, exchange forces, spin and the Pauli principle, many electron atoms and the Zeeman effect, the periodic table; nuclear semi-empirical mass formulae, systematics of nuclear transformations, introduction to the nuclear shell model and introduction to particle classification and the standard model. Applications of nuclear physics to medical physics and medical imaging are introduced including use of and production of radioisotopes, radioactive decay and modes of decay. Topics covered would also include introduction to radiation dosimetry, radiation oncology, medical imaging, nuclear medicine and design of medical linear accelerators. It will include the laboratory program with advanced individual virtual experiments in the course topics utilizing data from existing physical facilities. Nuclear modeling will be explored via simulation exercises as well. The course will be taught fully online synchronously, assessed fully by coursework asynchronously or synchronously based on the component and will involve readings and presentations covering selected topics in Modern Physics as well.
Assessment
Coursework 100%
Coursework in Atomic Physics 25%
Coursework in Nuclear Physics 25%
Coursework online laboratory exercises 25%
Coursework Research paper 25%
