To understand the processes studied in the lab, students are expected to be familiar with basic nuclear physics concepts as described in NE 305. Relevant topics covered in NE 305 include: basic quantum mechanical concepts; nuclear binding energies; alpha, beta, and gamma decay processes; reactions and cross-sections; and neutron thermalization and absorption.

Knowledge of basic laboratory instruments such as oscilloscopes, amplifiers, and personal computers is helpful.

Radiation Detection and Measurement, G. K. Knoll

NE 427 Laboratory Manuals and supporting files, laboratory writing guides, all available on eCOW

Course Objectives: It is the instructor's intention to... introduce students to the basic principles of operation for a wide range of nuclear radiation detectors.

describe the methodology to use statistical models and perform uncertainty analysis (error propagation) on counting data

provide in-lab training of the operation of gas-filled, scintillation, and solid state detectors

Course Outcomes: Students must be able to... demonstrate through experiment the basic principles of operation of nuclear radiation detectors and associated instrumentation

determine the best choice of detector for a given type of energetic radiation

understand the dependence of detector operation on the interactions of radiation with matter

demonstrate the ability to perform coincidence timing tests and neutron activation measurements

determine the experimental uncertainty in measurements of radiation count rates and quantities derived from such measurements

demonstrate the ability to take laboratory notes and prepare clearly written experimental reports.

One 1-1/4 hour lecture per week. One three-hour lab per week. Significant out-of-class time for required laboratory reports.

The following statement indicates which of the following considerations are included in this course: economic, environmental, ethical, political, societal, health and safety, manufacturability, sustainability.

This course provides basic laboratory training in radiation detection and as such is essentially an applied physics laboartory course. It has particular relevance to students planning to pursue a career in nuclear science and technology or physical science. Since it teaches the students the basics of radiation detectors and techniques for radiation detection, it is related to the health and safety aspects of nuclear technology and its applications.

This course supports NE program objectives in that it provides an education in the principles and practice of nuclear radiation detectors. The students have the opportunity to use these instruments in a lab to measure various types of energetic radiation. They also gain knowledge of the interaction of radiation with matter. This provides necessary background for further studies in nuclear reactor measurements and radiation shielding. The course provides a background in error propagation and use of statistical models which is important to all engineering disciplines. Finally, the course also provides training and experience in preparing written reports.