Syllabus
1. Description
Basic concepts of nuclear physics with emphasis
on nuclear structure and radiation interactions
with matter. Elementary quantum theory; nuclear
forces; shell structure of the nucleus; alpha, beta,
and gamma, radioactive decays; interactions of nuclear
radiations (charged particles, gammas and neutrons)
with matter; nuclear reactions; fission and fusion.
The course is divided into three main sections:
1) Quantum Mechanics Fundamentals;
2) Nuclear Structure and Nuclear Decays;
3) Interactions in Nuclear Matter and Nuclear Reactions.
2. Course Prerequisites
8.02, 18.02, 22.01
3. Textbooks
Introductory Nuclear Physics
Krane, K.S. - Wiley - 1988
Introductory Quantum Mechanics
Liboff, R. L. - Addison-Wesley - 2003
4. Problem Sets
The weekly problem sets are an essential part
of the course. Working through these problems
without reference to past year's solutions is critical
to understanding the material.
Problem sets will generally be assigned on Tuesday
and will be due on the following Tuesday. All problem
sets will be posted on the course web site.
Problem set solutions will be posted on the web
site following the due date. No problem sets will
be accepted after the solutions have been posted.
5. Exams
There will be a two hour mid term and a comprehensive
final exam. The final exam will emphasize material
from the entire course, and will be a mixture of
factual questions and problems.
6. Term Paper
There is no term paper required for this course.
7. Grading
The final grade for the course will be based on
the following:
Weekly Problem Sets: 30%
Mid Term Exam: 30%
Final Exam: 40%
8. Web Site
As the semester progresses, we will post important
information and other helpful material on this web
site. You should check the web site for announcements
(rescheduling etc.) prior to each class. All problem
sets and solutions will also be posted on this web
site.
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