Spring 2016: CHEM 312 Lecture 5 Beta Decay

Beta decay is presented in this lecture. The neutrino hypothesis and its relationship with beta decay is discussed. A review of Q value calculations for beta decay is provided. The importance of spin and parity, and how it can be used to assess beta decay, is discussed. Modeling beta decay through the weak force is provided. The impact of Coulomb interactions on positron and electron spectral shape is presented. The use of Kurie plots in understanding beta decay is introduced. Selection rules in beta decay and beta transitions are explained. Calculating logft and its relation to spin and parity are presented. Double beta decay is discussed.

Spring 2016: CHEM 312 Quiz 1

Assigned:  9-Feb-2016
Due:15-Feb-2016
2nd Due Date: 18-Feb-2016    

Quiz 1

                                                        

Use the chart of the nuclides, table of the isotopes, and/or data from the web links to answer the following questions. Please feel free to contact me via the blog with questions. The quiz is due on 15-Feb-2016. The answers will be posted on 16-Feb-2016. Changes can be made to the quiz after reviewing the answers. You will need to provide your work for any changes in a separate document. All changed questions will be worth a maximum of 50 % of the point total. A skype meeting of the quiz will be held on Tuesday 16 February at 1000 in the 1st floor conference room of the HRC.

Spring 2016 CHEM 312: Lecture 4 Alpha Decay

This lecture discusses alpha decay in radionuclides. Theories on alpha decay are presented. Systematics and energetics involved in alpha decay are presented. The correlation between Q value and decay energy is described. The Geiger Nuttall relationship is provided, described, and utilized in a model for alpha decay. Tunneling is also exploited to described alpha decay, coupling energy and half-life. Gamow calculations are shown to reflect the Geiger Nuttall relationship. Hindered alpha decay is discussed. Hindered alpha decay is employed to described nuclear properties. Hinderance factors are described, along with how they are calculated and where they can be found. Proton and other charged particle emission are presented.

Spring 2016 CHEM 312: Lecture 3 Decay Kinetics

This lecture covers the fundamental equations that describe the decay of radionuclides.  Basic equations and their utility are presented.  Equations for mixtures, equilibrium, and branching of radionuclides are covered.  Examples are provided for error evaluation from counts, activity determination, evaluation of half life, and lifetime of isotopes. Discussion of natural radiation and dating are given. Examples are provided for dating from ²³⁸U, ¹⁴C, and the Oklo reactor. 

Spring 2016 CHEM 312: Lecture 2 Nuclear Properties

A discussion on systematics of nuclear properties are presented. Mass, mass excess, and mass distribution within the nucleus is presented. Mass excess data are used to calculate energies in decays. Equations for determining nuclear radii are provided. Models that are used to describe the stability of nuclei are introduced. Nuclear shapes and structures are introduced.

Spring 2016 CHEM 312: Lecture 1 Introduction and Chart of the Nuclides

The class outcomes, expectations, and grading are explained. A history of radioelement discovery and radiation research is presented. The Chart of the Nuclides and Table of the Isotopes are discussed and used. Atomic properties, nuclear nomenclature, X-rays, types of decays and physical forces are introduced.

Spring 2016 CHEM 312: Lecture 0 Viewing online lectures

Using the online lecture format is presented. The lectures are available as notes without audio or animation, PowerPoint audio and animation, and MP4. The use of multiple formats should permit viewing of lectures on a host of platforms.