SP-502-4 Introduction to Gamma Spectroscopy

Prerequisites: None.

Purpose: This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of gamma-ray spectroscopy using NaI(Tl) or germanium detectors. It is designed for health physics and radiochemistry personnel who desire an introductory course in gamma-ray spectroscopy that emphasizes laboratory exercises.

Description:
The course is primarily lab-based with most class discussions reinforced by lab exercises. The course emphasizes the basic steps, concepts, and calculations required in gamma-ray spectroscopy. These steps and calculations will be performed by hand so that the student will gain an insight into the basic operations and calculations performed by computer software used for gamma-ray spectroscopy.

Course Requirements: Please bring a scientific calculator to class.

Note: This course will meet until 3:00 p.m. on Fridays.

Course Content:

• The Signal Chain – Lecture/Lab
• Introduction to Nuclear Radiation – Lecture
• Interaction of Radiation with Matter – Lecture
• Spectral Features – Lecture/Lab
• Efficiency Calibration – Lecture/Lab
• Energy Calibration – Lecture/Lab
• Identification of Nuclides – Lecture/Lab
• Calculation of Activity – Lecture/Lab