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PHY-20029 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2026/27 Last Updated: 16 September 2026

PHY-20029 - Radiation Physics
Coordinator: Steven Wye Tel: +44 1782 7 33852
Lecture Time:
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

In this module, you will explore the characteristics of various ionising radiations and their practical applications. We will start by covering the fundamental physics related to the emission and absorption of ionising radiation, which includes both high-energy electromagnetic waves and charged particles. You will investigate how these radiations interact with matter and learn about the techniques used for their detection. Later, we will examine the impact of ionising radiation from different sources on human health and the environment. As part of a case study, we will explore the short- and long-term effects of ionising radiation resulting from nuclear accidents like Chernobyl. Additionally, you will explore applications of ionising radiations in fields such as medical physics. This module builds upon core physics concepts from other level 4 and 5 modules, including atomic, nuclear, quantum physics, and electromagnetism.

Aims
To develop a knowledge of the different types of ionising radiations and their properties, to be able to quantify their interaction with matter and to determine how they are detected. This will be applied to the effects of radiation on matter, including their environmental effects and hazards. Applications of ionising radiation will also be covered, including their use within medical physics. The module also aims to develop problem solving skills in these topics.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/phy-20029/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

Explain the fundamental principles and interactions underlying radiation physics: 1
Apply quantitative methods to solve problems involving measurement, exposure, and processes in radiation physics: 1,2
Analyse and interpret information related to the effects and applications of radiation physics: 1,2
Develop teamwork and communication skills, learning from others and building peer networks, through group problem-solving: 2

Study hours

Active Learning Hours:
Lectures - 24 hrs
Practicals - 24 hrs
Independent Study Hours:
Group assessment - 24
Self study and revision - 75.5 hrs
Final Examination - 2.5 hrs

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Exam weighted 60%
Unseen written examination
A 2.5-hour exam worth 100 marks consisting of 8-10 compulsory short questions (equally weighted and adding to 40%) and 3-4 long questions of which students chose 2 questions (equally weighted and adding to 60%).

2: Group Assessment weighted 40%
Group based problem solving
A collection of group problem-solving exercises. Teams will be composed of at least 4 students. Marks will be awarded equally for students contributing to specific components; they may vary overall within a team where students do not contribute to all components of the exercises. There is no element of peer-assessment, this will be fully marked by staff on the basis of the work done.

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 16 September 2026