Nuclear physics
Graduate · Physics
Syllabus focus
Topics typically covered
Standard syllabus
Nuclear structure
- Shell model and magic numbers
- Collective models: vibrational and rotational
- Deformation and Nilsson orbitals
- Pairing correlations in nuclei
- Exotic nuclei near drip lines
Reactions and decay
- Optical model and reaction cross sections
- Compound nucleus and direct reactions
- Beta decay selection rules and matrix elements
- Gamma transitions and multipolarity
- Fission theory and barrier penetration
Experimental methods
- Beam facilities: cyclotrons and linacs
- Gamma-ray spectroscopy arrays
- Heavy-ion collisions and QGP signatures
- Neutrino-nucleus scattering (intro)
- Nuclear data evaluation and databases
STEM / applied
Applications and facilities
- Reactor physics and next-gen designs
- Medical isotope production chains
- Stockpile stewardship and test-ban monitoring
- Radiation effects on spacecraft electronics
- Nuclear forensics and safeguards technology
Detector systems
- Time-of-flight and ΔE–E telescopes
- Digital signal processing for HPGe arrays
- Neutron detectors and moderation
- Trigger systems in large collaborations
- Radiation transport codes: GEANT4 workflows
Research practice
- Writing nuclear physics proposals
- Beam time requests and safety training
- Analyzing ROOT trees from experiments
- Publishing in Physical Review C and Letters
- Interfacing theory with experimental datasets
Study units
Each unit includes a study guide, worksheets, review, practice test, and answer key. One unit is free; subscribe for the full class.
- Nuclear structure
Shell model and magic numbers
Coming soon - Reactions and decay
Optical model and reaction cross sections
Coming soon - Experimental methods
Beam facilities: cyclotrons and linacs
Coming soon - Applications and facilities
Reactor physics and next-gen designs
Coming soon - Detector systems
Time-of-flight and ΔE–E telescopes
Coming soon - Research practice
Writing nuclear physics proposals
Coming soon
Notes
Topics reflect common graduate physics core and elective syllabi at US universities. Sequencing and emphasis vary between one- and two-semester treatments.