Radiation Physics : The Interaction of Ionizing Radiation with Matter

This book provides an introduction to the basic atomic and nuclear physics concepts behind radiation physics and radiation interactions with matter. This book is an invaluable guide for undergraduate students in nuclear physics and engineering interested in ionizing radiation interactions with matter or as a reference for the more advanced.

Interactions of radiation in matter are of keen interest to many fields of study, including electrical and electromechanical engineering, energy production, materials characterization, cancer treatment, and diagnostic treatment. This book provides an introduction to the basic atomic and nuclear physics concepts behind radiation physics and radiation interactions with matter. It will acquaint readers with the fundamental theories of the interaction of ionizing radiation with matter. Readers will learn how to apply the basic theories of atomic physics, including the theory of relativity, wave particle duality, models of the atom, and uncertainty and exclusion principles to radiation physics. They will also understand basic concepts in nuclear physics including nuclear models, binding energy, mass defect, nuclear reactions, Q values and the energetics of nuclear reactions to radiation physics. This book will enable students to perform quantitative assessments of radioactivity including simple problems in nuclear and radiological engineering using radioactive decay law, half-life, decay constant, decay chains, and radio-dating. Chapters also explore how to characterize neutron, photon electron and charged particle interactions with matter and calculate interaction cross sections, charged particle ranges and how to stop power and energy transfer with regards to radiation interactions with matter. This book is an invaluable guide for undergraduate students in nuclear physics and engineering interested in ionizing radiation interactions with matter. It can also serve as a reference for graduate students and researchers looking to understand basic ideas in radiation interactions. Key features:Class tested, based on 15 years of experience teaching an undergraduate class on the subject. Pedagogically focused, with examples, problems and Python code for instructors and students. Demands no prior nuclear science and engineering background.