RADIATATION PHYSICS AND MEASUREMENT (RAPTOR DFA) - 2026/7

Module Overview

This module presents an introduction to key topics in radiation physics, the interactions of radiation with matter, and the principles of radiation measurement. The module also includes laboratory classes giving an introduction to the use of radiation detectors.

Module provider

Mathematics & Physics

Module Leader

SELLIN Paul (Maths & Phys)

Number of Credits: 15

ECTS Credits: 7.5

Framework: FHEQ Level 7

Module cap (Maximum number of students): N/A

Module Availability

Semester 1

Prerequisites / Co-requisites

None

Module content

Indicative content includes:

Lectures (10 hours in-person, with distance learning) 

(a) Introduction to Radiation Physics (2 hours) Introduction to theory of alpha and beta decay; electron capture, gamma emission. 

(b) Radiation Interactions and Detection (4 hours) Interactions of X-ray and gamma ray photons, including photoelectric, Compton and pair production processes. Interactions of charge particles, particle flux and cross-section. 

(c) Introduction to Radiation Detectors (4 hours) Introduction to radiation detectors, describing the basic function and operation of semiconductor, scintillator and GM detectors. Counting statistics, dead time and energy resolution, use of the MCA. 

Distance Learning topics for additional material: X-ray emission and the electronic structure of the atom, X-ray spectra; Moseley's law, X-ray fluorescence and X-ray fluorescence yield. X-ray production, bremsstrahlung and radiative yield. Photon attenuation coefficients and the mixture rule. Detection of X-rays, and fast/thermal neutrons. Operation of gas detectors. 

Laboratory Classes (9 hours) 3 laboratory sessions, each 3 hours in length: 

• Alpha spectroscopy: alpha particle spectroscopy using a PIN diode, alpha range in air and energy loss vs air pressure. 
• Beta Detection: use of GM tube to detect beta range and attenuation using aluminium foils. 
• Gamma Spectroscopy: use of HPGe for gamma spectroscopy using standard radioisotope sources.

Assessment pattern

Alternative Assessment

None

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate: Knowledge and understanding of underlying physics concepts and conservation laws which underpin these. The ability to identify and use the appropriate techniques to solve relevant atomic and nuclear physics problems. Thus, the summative assessment for this module consists of: 

- a laboratory report on the experimental work performed. 

- a 1-hour online test on the lecture material.

Module aims

• Introduce or consolidate and extend students' understanding of underpinning concepts behind atomic and nuclear physics
• Provide students with an introduction to quantum mechanical descriptions of atomic and nuclear structure and related phenomena
• Enable students to apply their knowledge and skills to atomic and nuclear physics problems.
• To provide the student with an understanding of the experimental use of radioactive materials, radiation counting, spectroscopy equipment and standard radiation experimental techniques.

Learning outcomes

Methods of Teaching / Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is designed to: 

• Provide students with an introduction to graduate-level material on underlying physics and mathematical basis for understanding radiation physics processes. 
• Provide students with an understanding of the underlying structure of atoms and atomic nuclei. 
• Provide students with experience of mathematical methods used to understand and solve atomic and nuclear radiation problems. 

The learning and teaching methods include: 

• Ten hours of in-person lectures followed by distance learning 
• Laboratory classes to put into practice the theory introduced in lectures.

Indicated Lecture Hours (which may also include seminars, tutorials, workshops and other contact time) are approximate and may include in-class tests where one or more of these are an assessment on the module. In-class tests are scheduled/organised separately to taught content and will be published on to student personal timetables, where they apply to taken modules, as soon as they are finalised by central administration. This will usually be after the initial publication of the teaching timetable for the relevant semester.

Reading list

https://readinglists.surrey.ac.uk
Upon accessing the reading list, please search for the module using the module code: PHYM080

Other information

The Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences is committed to developing graduates with strengths in Digital Capabilities, Employability, Global and Cultural Capabilities, Resourcefulness, Resilience, and Sustainability. This module is designed to allow students to develop knowledge, skills and capabilities in the following areas: 

Employability: The module equips students with skills which significantly enhance their employability. The proficiency gained hones critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, particularly in the radiation science arena. Students will learn to analyse world problems and apply scientifically robust techniques to arrive at solutions. These are highly sought after skills in the science, engineering areas and in many professions. The module also introduces learners to experimental equipment and techniques used by professional scientists in both industry and academia. 

Resourcefulness and Resilience: Problem solving is a key component of this module. Students will be required draw upon individual and collective resourcefulness and develop a problem solving mindset as they work on the experimental aspects.

Please note that the information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change. This record contains information for the most up to date version of the programme / module for the 2026/7 academic year.