Computer Tools for Nuclear Physics I

physics

[Note: as these classes are also offered to UJ's students, an exact date will be found by the votes at the Doodle poll. So if you plan to attend the classes, please send a contact email to: krzysztof.piasecki@fuw.edu.pl ]

Programming-wise, this course is intended for students with basic knowledge of C++ (including pointers, classes, inheritance, text file IO) and Linux (shell - basic commands). However, to refresh the above C++ topics, a 2h reminder shall be organized upon request.

Physics-wise: basic knowledge of two-body kinematics, what is the differential and integrated cross section, passing of charged particles through absorbers, and basic information on hadrons.

Blended learning

The aim of this course is to learn the basic computer and programming tools used in the experimental subatomic physics. The students are first introduced to the NRV 2-body kinematics applet, and SRIM/TRIM package on passing particles through the absorber, as well as databases of nuclear and hadronic cross sections: SAID, EXFOR etc.

Then a large part of the classes is devoted to the ROOT data analysis platform.

Students will learn in a practical way a couple of computer tools helpful at work of the nuclear and particle physicist.

1. NRV two-body kinematics applet

2. SRIM/TRIM package on passing particles through the absorber

3. databases of cross sections: EXFOR, SAID etc

4. CERN-based ROOT data analysis platform

The student should be able to:

- find the energy of particle or nucleus after two-body collision, emitted in a given angle

- estimate (SRIM) or simulate (TRIM) the energy and range of charged particle passing through a given absorber

- find the nuclear or hadronic cross section in databases like EXFOR, SAID etc

- perform the analysis of data from experiment or simulation code with help of the ROOT platform, that includes implementation of own data structure, fitting and visualisation.

Graded credit based on performed project.

If you are linked to some research group, the best is such a project that helps to achieve progress in the context of your analysis linked to this group. If you cannot find a topic, consult with the coordinator in advance.

The project cannot be a reuse of a code developed to pass another course.