Lecture 5: Beta Decay

This lecture presents Beta decay. The observations from beta decay are used as the basis of the neutrino hypothesis.  The decay spectra from beta emission is used to develop models.  The impact of Coulomb interactions on positron and electron spectral shape is presented. This discussion is used to explain the develop of models to evaluate decay constants. Selection rules in beta decay and beta transitions are explained, and coupled to spin and parity difference between the parent and daughter states.  Log ft calculations are presented as a means to evaluate transitions. Double beta decay and delayed neutron emission from beta decay are introduced.

Homework questions from the end of this lecture are due in class or can be returned by e-mail on 1 October.  

Lecture 4: Alpha Decay

This lecture discusses alpha decay in radionuclides and provides the basic information to develop alpha decay theory. Systematics and energetics involved in alpha decay are presented and used to describe the nucleus. The correlation between Q value and decay energy is described. Tunneling is introduced as a concept in alpha decay. Hindered alpha decay is discussed. Proton and other charged particle emission are presented.

The homework question at the end of this lecture can be e-mail or returned during the next class meeting on 23 September.  

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Test 1: Lecture 1 (Introduction) and Lecture 2 (Nuclear Properties)

The 1st quiz is posted at http://radchem.nevada.edu/classes/chem312/quizzes.html.  You should be prepared to discuss the quiz during the class meeting on 24 September. Questions related to the quiz can be posted here.  Responses to all questions will be posted on the blog.

Lecture 3, Part 2: Radioactive Decay Kinetics

The equations described in part 1 are explored in more detail in part 2.  Growth and decay of parent and daughter isotopes are presented.  This is extended to multiple decays, with the Bateman equation given and a link to a code to solve the Bateman equation provided.  Equations utilizing cross sections to determined rate of isotope production are provided.  Saturation factors to account for the decay of the produced isotope are provided.  The use of isotopes in dating is described, with examples provided for ²³⁸U, ¹⁴C and the Oklo reactor.

The homework question at the end of this lecture can be e-mail or returned during the next class meeting on 23 September.  

Lecture 3, Part 1: Radioactive Decay Kinetics

The first part of the lecture on radioactive decay kinetics is posted.  This lecture provides four basic equations that are often used in radiochemistry.  The equations to evaluate error from count data is provided.  Relationships between initial amount of a radionuclide and amount at a given time is described.  Equations to determine activity from the decay constant and number of radioactive nuclei are given.  Please comment on the blog when you have completed the this lecture.