Nuclear physics [SPHYB305]

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

• understand the composition of the nuclei of the elements that make up our universe;
• explain the properties of nuclei on the basis of different nuclear models;
• understand the phenomenon of radioactivity, be able to explain the different types of decay and be able to describe some applications;
• understand the concept of nuclear reactions and be able to describe some applications.

Objectives

The aim of this course is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of various nuclear models, enabling them to grasp a range of practical applications, such as nuclear energy production, radioactive dating methods, production of radioisotopes for medical use, materials characterisation, etc.

Table of contents

1. Historical introduction to Nuclear Physics
2. Rutherford's formalism
3. The size and shape of nuclei
4. The liquid drop model
5. Radioactivity
6. Nuclear reactions and the compound nucleus model
7. The nuclear shell model
8. Towards particle physics

Exercises description

Exercise sessions are organised by an assistant to illustrate and put into practice the concepts covered in the theory course.
Some of the questions in the reference books are solved during these tutorial sessions.