Elements of Optics and Nuclear Physics

A.Y. 2024/2025
9
Max ECTS
72
Overall hours
SSD
FIS/03 FIS/04
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to provide students with a framework of the main optical and nuclear physics phenomena that are exploited in various technical and physical methods used for the study of cultural heritages. Particular emphasis is given to luminescence dating techniques of ceramic samples
Expected learning outcomes
Theoretical skills of luminescence dating techniques.
Knowledge of the main methods of detection of ionizing radiation.
Single course

This course can be attended as a single course.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
year
Course syllabus
The program consists of the following topics:
· Chart of Nuclides
· Radioactive decay
· Types of decay (alpha, beta, gamma)
· Natural and artificial radioactivity
· Cyclotron and mass spectrometer
· Basis of radiation-matter interaction
· Radiation detection methods and instrumentation
· Gamma spectrometry
· Dose, natural dose rate, assessment methods
· Luminescence: Thermoluminescence (TSL) and Optically Stimulation Luminescence (OSL)
· Application of TSL and OSL techniques for dating: procedures and examples
· Basic knowledge of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and correlated instruments
· Surface effects evaluation by means of NMR
· Magnetic Resonance Imaging
· Surface-fluids interaction properties: Surface tension, Wettability, Capillarity
· Porosity and NMR studies of porosity
· MR applications for the study of porous materials of interest to Cultural Heritage
· Electromagnetic waves
· Geometrical Optics
· Wave Optics
· Optical Instruments
· Examples and exercises on the various covered topics
Prerequisites for admission
Good knowledge of general physics
Teaching methods
The teaching method consists of lectures in the classroom, during which the topics of the program are explained together with examples and exercises
Teaching Resources
Slides and bibliographic documents available or suggested on the website of the course in ARIEL (http://ariel.unimi.it/)
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam consists of an oral test designed to verify the correct understanding of the various topics covered in the program, as well as the ability to elaborate the concepts and information provided.
FIS/03 - PHYSICS OF MATTER - University credits: 4.5
FIS/04 - NUCLEAR AND SUBNUCLEAR PHYSICS - University credits: 4.5
Lessons: 72 hours