Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics

The aim is to provide some basic knowledge of nuclear and subnuclear
physics. The main properties that characterize nuclei, their constituents, the elementary particles
and interactions are illustrated. Selected topics are introduced by discussing the physical problems, the experimental approach, and the comparison beteween experimental data and predictions. The latters, in case of simple models are described in detail.

Analogies with other systems are also presented as well as the technologies and methods specific to subatomic physics. Topics of current research relevant for this subject are also briefly
illustrated.

At the end of this course, the students:
1) will acquire the main notions
that are the basis of the experiments and phenomenology that have
led to the description of the nuclei, their consituents, elementary particles and
their interactions at a fundamental level.
2) will know the
laws and properties of radioactive decays, fusion and fission
together with the mechanisms and the interactions that underline these
physical processes.
3) As to the structure of the nuclei, they will known the basic principles and
the relevant ingredients of the models describing the organization of
nucleons.
4) As far as elementary particles are concerned, they will be able to
identify the effects due to their constituents and to the symmetries of
the interactions which are at play during the formation and decay phases.
5) will be able to recognize the properties of the mediators of the
different forces, electromagnetic, strong and weak.

The knowledge gained by the students in this course is essential if one
wants to learn more on these subjects with other more advanced courses