Radiochemistry and Radioactivity

Postgraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

Objectives and content:

The aim of this course is to give a thorough introduction to radioactivity as well as central concepts in radiochemistry. Radiochemical principles are seen in conjunction with chemical concepts and other fields where radiochemical principles can be utilized. Those examples are from e.g. industry, the environment and medicine. The course shall relay knowledge about the role of radioactivity, both as a tool and its own scientific discipline. Applications where radiochemistry plays an integral part will be specifically treated.

The course will contain the physical basis of nuclear structure and how the properties of the nucleus changes during radioactive decay. The different nuclear radiations, their interactions, and how they can be detected. Radiation properties and how these are used in chemical applications, and how different radiation interact with matter.

Many applications in the field of medicine, especially positron emission tomography (PET) and nuclear medicine therapy will be discussed. Radioactive pollution and simple dosimetry.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

  • can define radioactive decay processes and nuclear radiation
  • knows the principles of utilizing radioactivity applied to chemistry, chemical processes and adjacent fields where chemistry is an integral part.
  • knows the principles of radiation hygiene and the interaction of radiation and matter.
  • can update himself/herself on current methods in radiochemistry.

Skills

The student

  • is able to define and use nomenclature, units and properties of radiation and radiochemistry
  • can perform calculations in radiochemistry and utilize these in applied radiochemical sciences.
  • Is able to assess radiation and radiation exposure from a radiation protection point of view.

General competence

The student

  • can pass on relevant scientific knowledge both written and oral.
  • can solve problems individually or as an active member in a team.

Semester of Instruction

Spring.

Place of Instruction

Bergen
Required Previous Knowledge
Recommended Previous Knowledge
Access to the Course
Access to the course requires admission to a programme of study at the Faculty of Science and Technology
Teaching and learning methods

The course is given as lectures, demonstrations and excursions.

Lectures/ 4 hours/week

Excursions/ 2 days/semester

Demonstrations as needed

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

Semester term assignment in a chosen or given topic within radiochemistry or radioactivity.

A valid compulsory assignment is valid for two semesters - the semester the assignment is completed and the following semester.

Forms of Assessment

The forms of assessment are:

  • Semester term assignment , 40% of total grade.
  • digital written examination (4 hours), 60% of total grade.
Grading Scale

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.

Assessment Semester
Ordinary examination each semester. In semesters where the course is not taught, exam is scheduled early in the semester.
Reading List
The reading list will be available within July 1st for the autumn semester and December 1st for the spring semester
Course Evaluation

Evaluation is conducted according to the quality assurance system at University of Bergen.

kvalitetsbasen.app.uib.no/?faknr=12&instnr=31

Examination Support Material
  • Non-programmable calculator, according to the faculty regulations,
  • Nuclide chart
Programme Committee
The Programme Committee is responsible for the content, structure and quality of the study programme and courses.
Course Coordinator
Contact information for the course coordinator is available at «Mitt UiB», alternatively contact the student advisor.
Course Administrator
The Faculty of Science and Technology and Department of Chemistry are administratively responsible for the course.