Learning objectives
The aim of the module is to provide the physical fundamentals of radiation protection.
Students should acquire deeper insight in radioactive decay, the emission of alpha and beta particles, gamma rays, the interaction of ionizing radiation with matter and the effects that these interactions have on biological matter and man.
Prerequisites
nessuno
Course unit content
Radioactivity and law of radioactive decay.
Type of radiation and properties.
X-ray production and beam quality.
Physical quantities of radioprotection, definition and units.
Radiation-matter interaction.
Biological effect of ioninizing radiation. Deterministic and stochastic
damages.
Detection of radiation and principal instruments of measurements.
Dosimeters and dosimetry.
Full programme
Radioactivity and law of radioactive decay.
Type of radiation and properties.
Interaction of radiation with matter, energy tranfer and radiation chemistry.
X-ray production and beam quality.
Physical quantities of radioprotection, definition and units.
Biological effect of ioninizing radiation. Deterministic and stochastic
damages.
Detection of radiation and principal instruments of measurements.
Dosimeters and dosimetry.
Bibliography
M. Pelliccioni - Fondamenti fisici della radioprotezione - Pitagora editrice, Bologna
E. L. Alpen - Radiation Biophysics - Prentice Hall International Editions
Teaching methods
During classroom lectures, the topics contained in the program of the
module will be illustrated and commented. Emphasis will be posed on the
applications of basic physical principles, with examples of how such
principles can lead to quantitative predictions on physiological and
pathological phenomena.
In selected cases, the demontration of basic physics principles will be
illustrated, with the aim to introduce the students to the practice of
logical thinking and experimental approach.
Assessment methods and criteria
The achievement of the objectives of the module will be assessed
through a written examination, mainly consisting in open questions on
the topics of the course. This will allow to ascertain the knowledge and
the understanding of both the theoretical bases and their consequences.
The written examination will include the resolution of problems, to assess
the achievement of the ability to apply the acquired knowledge to a
simulated biological or medical situation. All parts of the written exam
will be equally weighted in the final evaluation.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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