Nuclear chemistry

lchm2246  2024-2025  Louvain-la-Neuve

Nuclear chemistry
3.00 credits
22.5 h + 7.5 h
Q1
Teacher(s)
Language
Main themes
The aim of the course is threefold
- present an extended knowledge of the atomic nucleus, stable and unstable, in order to master the theoretical concepts and the various applications related to isotopes, radioactivity and nuclear reactions ;
- give a fundamental understanding of the interactions between radiations and matter, with their chemical and biological consequences and applications to radioprotection ;
- provide firm basis to appreciate the problem of energy supply by nuclear ways.
Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :

1 The aim of the course is threefold :
- present an extended knowledge of the atomic nucleus, stable and unstable, in order to master the theoretical concepts and the various applications related to isotopes, radioactivity and nuclear reactions ;
- give a fundamental understanding of the interactions between radiations and matter, with their chemical and biological consequences and applications to radioprotection ;
- provide firm basis to appreciate the problem of energy supply by nuclear ways.
 
Content
  1. Stability of atomic nuclei, radioactivity and nuclear disintegrations.
  2. Introduction to the standard model in nuclear physics
  3. Production of radioelements: nuclear reactions and irradiation conditions
  4. Measurement of radioactivity
  5. Chemical and biological effects, dosimetry of radiations
  6. Production of energy : nuclear fission and fusion
  7. Applications of nuclear chemistry: isotopic exchange; use of radioactive tracers in chemistry; labelled molecules in biology and nuclear medicine; datation methods.
Teaching methods
Lectures, exercices and visits related to radioactivity will be provided
Evaluation methods
The exam contains theoretical questions to discuss and exercises to solve.
Other information
Prerequisite :
- Basic notions in general and physical chemistry (1st and 2nd year of a bachelor degree) are needed.
Bibliography
Deux livres de référence seront principalement utilisés:
  • Radiochemistry and Nuclear Chemistry de G. Choppin (2002)
  • Nuclear and Radiochemistry de K. Lieser (2001).
Faculty or entity


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Master [120] in Chemistry

Master [60] in Chemistry

Certificat universitaire en radiopharmacie