MMath&Phys Mathematics and Physics

Nuclear Forces and Reactions

To introduce the main features of the forces between nucleons and reactions between
nuclei, and to link nuclear physics to other areas of physics.

On completion successful students will be able to:
1. describe the mean features of the forces between protons and neutrons, and their relation to the underlying forces between quarks.
2. use cross sections and phase shifts to describe quantum mechanical scattering processes.
3. show how simple models can explain the main features of nuclear reactions.
4. explain how specific nuclear reactions are responsible for the formation of the elements.

1. Nuclear forces                        (8 lectures)
Symmetries in nuclear physics
From quarks to pions and nucleons
The deuteron
Scattering in quantum mechanical systems
Partial waves
Effective-range expansion
Pion-exchange force
Phases of nuclear matter

2.  Nuclear reactions                        (8 lectures)
Reaction cross sections
Resonances
Optical potential
Compound nucleus
Direct reactions
Nuclear fission

3.  Nuclear astrophysics          (6 lectures)
The Big Bang
H and He burning in stars
Formation of heavier elements
Supernovae and neutron stars

Feedback will be available on students individual written solutions to examples sheets, which will be marked, and model answers will be issued.

Bertulani, C. A. Nuclear Physics in a Nutshell (Princeton)
Krane, K. S. Introductory Nuclear Physics (Wiley)
Wong, S. S. M. Introductory Nuclear Physics (Wiley)