Piattaforma Kiro - Didattica Curriculare 3+2 e Lauree Magistrali Ciclo Unico

Learning and application of the main algorithms used for the numerical solution of problems in classical and quantum physics.
One of the main goals of the course is to develop the necessary mental attitude to solve a problem from the numerical point of view. For this reason all the algorithms are shown theoretically and also through their use in solving physics problems which admit an analytical solution, so that a critical comparison between numerical and analytical solution can be carried out. After this phase, some obtained results for particular problems, which do not admit an analytical solution, are discussed.

The aim of the course is to discuss and describe the main methods used in all the various sectors of physics for the interpretation,
 simulation and prediction of experimental data.
Covered topics include: 
Calculation of probabilities for multiple variables and functions of random variables; 
basic statistics (confidence intervals; estimation of probabilities, means, variances and correlation coefficients);
detailed treatment of the Monte Carlo method, with the explanation of both its basic principles and of some significant applications
Maximum likelihood principle applied to parameter estimation and hypothesis testing; 
Least Squares method and its application to concrete cases of "best fit".

Aim of the course is to learn the practical use of scintillation detectors, solid-state detectors (HPGe, Si including SiPM, CZT) and instrumentation used in medical and environmental physics.

The minimum prerequisites are: principles of radiation-matter interaction, electronics, statistics and data analysis.

The proposed laboratory experiences are (not necessarily in chronological order):

- NaI(Tl) chain assembly.

- Energy calibration of a NaI(Tl) chain.

- Analysis of gamma spectra.

- Identification of radionuclides by gamma spectrometry.

- Energy resolution of a NaI(Tl).

- Measurement of radionuclide activity.

- Measurement of mass attenuation coefficient of Pb and Al using gamma photons.

- Measurement of surface contamination.

- Efficiency calibration of an HPGe.

- Neutron activation and analysis of activated samples.

- Characterisation of a SiPM array.

- Alpha spectrometry.

- Characterisation of a CZT solid-state detector and gamma spectrometry for BNCT.

- Educational prototypes of PET scans.

The course is organised in frontal lectures and laboratory experiences. In the slides, the theory is recalled and the technology of the instruments that will be used in the laboratory is introduced.