PH2240 - Atomic and Nuclear Physics
| Credit points: | 03 |
| Year: | 2016 |
| Student Contribution Band: | Band 2 |
| Administered by: | College of Science and Engineering |
An understanding of the nature of atoms is developed by examining the basic quantum mechanical model for the electronic structure of atoms. Central to this model is the interaction of atoms with light and electric and magnetic fields. Applications that are important for our standards of time and length will be discussed. 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. Topics in atomic and nuclear physics covered include: Fundamentals of atomic structure: The hydrogen atom; Describing multi-electron atoms: Spin-Orbit Coupling; Atomic Radiation; Atoms in Magnetic Fields; Applications of Atomic Physics; Nuclear properties; Nuclear models; Nuclear reactions; Radiation detectors; Biological Effects of radiation; and Applications selected from the following: medicine, nuclear power production, industrial applications & environmental issues.
Learning Outcomes
- acquire knowledge and understanding about the electronic and nuclear structure of atoms;
- be able to solve problems related to the structure of atoms and the effect of ionizing radiation on the body and the environment;
- have an appreciation of the influence of atomic and nuclear physics on modern scientific development;
- have the foundations for examining in more detail various aspects of experimental and theoretical physics which relate to both atomic and nuclear physics;
- be able to explain the key areas in which Atomic and Nuclear Physics affects everyday living.
| Prerequisites: | PH2002 AND MA1003 |
Availabilities | |
| Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2 | |
| Census Date 25-Aug-2016 | |
| Coord/Lect: | Professor Ronald White. |
| Contact hours: |
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| Assessment: | end of semester exam (50% - 70%); quizzes or tests (10% - 20%); assignments (10% - 20%); lab reports (10% - 20%). |
Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.