RAD1081 · Foundations in medical radiation physics

Overview

This unit aims to provide you with the opportunity to develop theoretical knowledge in the concepts underpinning medical radiation physics. The unit begins with an examination of mathematical principles related to medical radiation physics. You will then study the laws of physics, the units of measurement used within the discipline, electricity, magnetism and the electromagnetic spectrum. You will learn about the physical properties of atomic structure and about the interaction of particles and waves including mechanisms for absorption and scattering of energy at the atomic level. The focus will then move to the properties of radiation, radiation interactions with matter, and the production and detection of radiation. Foundation principles of radiation safety and radiation protection together with statutory requirements will be covered. The physics concepts discussed will be applied in a radiation therapy context in relation to principles, implications and instrumentation.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe fundamental mathematics and physics concepts relevant to medical radiation physics, focussing on mechanics, waves and particles, thermal physics, electricity, magnetism and electromagnetism.
2. Explain the principles and properties of atomic structure, radioactivity, the processes of radiation interactions with matter and the production, absorption and scattering of energy.
3. Describe the instrumentation used for the production of x-rays including the Diagnostic X-ray Tube and the Medical Linear Accelerator.
4. Discuss the principles of radiation detection and dosimetry relevant to medical radiation physics.
5. Describe the effects of ionising radiation on cellular matter.
6. Examine the principles of radiation safety and radiation protection that apply to the use of medical radiations.
7. Analyse laboratory findings and communicate these in written form.

Workload

1 hour online lecture, 2 hour weekly contact session (7 weeks are 2-hour-tutorials, 5 weeks are 2-hour-labs across semester), and 2 hours of teacher - directed interaction with Moodle based tasks per week. You will be expected to engage in additional self-directed activities to facilitate the development of knowledge and understanding of the physical concepts covered in the unit for 7 hours each week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.