PHYS8201 Fundamentals of Nuclear Science

Offered By	Physics Education Centre
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Physics
Offered in	First Semester, 2011 and First Semester, 2012
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	In the context of the wide application of nuclear techniques, this course aims to introduce students to the key concepts in nuclear physics. These include: Fundamental nuclear properties Nuclear binding energy Nuclear transmutation and decay Exponential decay law and secular equilibrium Nuclear reactions, fission and fusion Basic nuclear models (shell model, vibrational model, rotational model)
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to: 1. explain basic properties of nuclei and the forces that bind them, and compare and contrast nuclear forces with other forces in nature and argue how the unique properties of nuclei ensue 2. recognise common types of nuclear reactions and critically discuss their applications 3. explain the origin and properties of radiation emitted by unstable nuclei and appraise their applications 4. read nuclear level schemes and interrogate web-based nuclear databases as tools for problem solving in the application of nuclear techniques 5. identify and interpret key characteristics in nuclear spectra in terms of simple nuclear models
Indicative Assessment	An assessment portfolio, to be negotiated with students in terms of formats and weightings, will be based on: Homework, tutorial exercises and problem sets (LO 1-5) Written assignments/essays (LO 2, 5) Class presentation (LO 1-3, 5) Take home exam (LO 1-5)
Workload	2 lecture hours per week plus tutorials plus homework and assignments
Course Classification(s)	AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest	Physics
Eligibility	Bachelor degree
Requisite Statement	General science knowledge
Preliminary Reading	J. Lilley, Nuclear Physics, Wiley (2001) / K. Krane, Introductory Nuclear Physics, Wiley (1987)
Academic Contact	Dr Andrew Stuchbery

The information published on the Study at ANU 2011 website applies to the 2011 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2010 website.