Unit 6 : Additional Problems

For those looking for additional problems outside of past exam questions and the worked problems in the lectures please consider the following.

• Write the equations for neutron and proton fusion to form deuterium and for deuterium photo-dissociation.

• Look up the doublet method for measuring the deuterium binding energy with a mass spectrometer.

• In alpha decay, what are the approximations made in the derivation we did for the Po-212 Half Life.

• Explain the general features of the cloud chamber plot and the beta energy spectrum plot shown and why they indicate the need for a third decay.

• N-22 has mass 20487.686 MeV and can decay by (a) EC to Ne-22. What is the Q value (energy released in each case)?

• Other than PET what other types of nuclear medicine are there.

• Briefly explain the meaning of all the terms in the Fermi equation for Beta decay. Explain what the basic conditions are for spontaneous decay of a nucleus to occur.

• Describe and sketch the Geiger-Nuttall relation in alpha decay, write out the relevant equation relating the half-life to the energy released Q.

• Describe the factors involved in the solution for the transmission probability of an alpha escaping from a nucleus.

• Explain the development of our understanding of the nucleon-nucleon potential.

• Write out the types of pion exchange that can occur in nucleon-nucleon scattering.

• Estimate the pion masses using the uncertainty principle.

• Explain at least 4 factors that contribute to the nuclear force potential between nucleons.