Introduction to Nuclear Science

Book excerpt: Written to provide students who have limited backgrounds in the physical sciences and math with an accessible textbook on nuclear chemistry and physics, Introduction to Nuclear Science, Fourth Edition continues to provide a clear and complete introduction to nuclear chemistry and physics, from basic concepts to nuclear power and medical applications. Incorporating suggestions from adopting professors and collaborations with the U.S. Department of Energy-funded and American Chemical Society-sponsored Nuclear Chemistry Summer School, a new chapter on nuclear structure is now included. Also new to this edition: A section covering mass excess calculations Isochron dating of rocks The section on statistics is completely re-written to better align with conventional instruction Expanded discussion of recent changes in the nuclear power industry and nuclear medicine This book covers energetics, nuclear stability and structure, radioactive decay and reactions, interactions of radiation with matter, detection methods, and safety measures, including monitoring and regulations. This updated, expanded edition provides a much-needed textbook and resource for undergraduate students in science and engineering as well as those studying nuclear medicine and radiation therapy.