Course Overview
The course builds on the basic nuclear physics theory covered in PHYS 1274 to study nuclear radiation interactions and detection. It begins with a description of radiation interactions with matter. Next, the foundation for understanding electronic instrumentation is made by covering topics in basic electricity and magnetism. Radiation detection instrumentation is then described in detail, including gas-filled, solid state and scintillation detectors and an introduction to gamma cameras.
Prerequisite(s)
Credits
9.5
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain the variety of radiation interaction and attenuation processes and relate these processes to detector design, selection, and response.
- Relate knowledge of radiation interaction and attenuation processes to shielding requirements and the proper practice of radiation safety.
- Relate the principles of electrostatics, current electricity, magnetism and alternating current to the design and operation of the electronic instrumentation and devices used in nuclear medicine.
- Describe the design, operation and performance of gas-filled and solid state detector systems including radiation counters, survey meters, dosimeters and dose calibrators.
- Describe the design, operation and performance of scintillator-based radiation detection systems, specifically scintillation counters, spectrometers and gamma cameras.
- Apply critical thinking skills to evaluate instrument performance and diagnose instrumentation problems.
- Demonstrate scientific laboratory skills with nuclear instrumentation by carrying out an experimental procedure given a set of nstructions, recording experimental data in an organized and complete fashion and determining and reporting the conclusions from a physics experiment.
- Utilize the theoretical foundations of nuclear science and technology to communicate with nuclear medicine professionals and extract information from relevant scientific and technical literature.
Effective as of Winter 2012
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.