RAD-267: Radiation Physics

School
Health and Human Services
Division
Health Careers
Department
Radiography Technician
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Radiography
Course Number
267
Course Title
Radiation Physics
Credit Hours
4.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
62.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
62.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
RAD-196, RAD-284
Catalog Course Description

This lecture course focuses upon fundamental physics for radiologic technology including electrostatics, electrodynamics, electromagnetic induction, fundamentals of x-ray generating equipment, x-ray production, and beam characteristics. X-ray photon interactions with matter will be reviewed.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Fundamental Principles of Physics
  2. Math Review
  3. Atomic Structure and Matter
  4. Electromagnetic Energy
  5. Electrodynamics
  6. Electromagnetism
  7. Generators, Motors and Transformers
  8. Rectification
  9. X-ray Tube and Circuits
  10. X-ray Production and Emission
  11. X-ray Emission Spectra
  12. X-ray Interactions with Matter
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  1. List the fundamental units of measurement.
  2. Describe the difference between fundamental and derived units of measurement.
  3. Calculate measurements of velocity, momentum, force, work, and power when given the appropriate information.
  4. Describe fundamental atomic structure.
  5. Describe electron shells and electron binding energy.
  6. Describe the process of ionization of an atom.
  7. Describe the electromagnetic spectrum.
  8. Differentiate between non-ionizing and ionizing electromagnetic radiation.
  9. Describe the common properties of all electromagnetic energy.
  10. Solve problems using wave equation calculations.
  11. Solve problems using inverse square law calculations.
  12. Define potential difference, current and resistance.
  13. Solve problems using Ohm’s Law calculations.
  14. Describe the principles of magnetism and electromagnetism.
  15. Identify the general components and functions of the x-ray tube and filament circuits.
  16. Explain the role of rectification in the x-ray tube circuit.
  17. Describe the conditions necessary to produce x-radiation.
  18. Compare the production of bremsstrahlung and characteristic radiations.
  19. Describe the x-ray emission spectra.
  20. Identify the factors that affect the x-ray emission spectra.
  21. Discuss various x-ray photon interactions with matter including energy range, site of interaction in the atom, the effect on the atom, and the effect on the x-ray photon.
  22. Describe and diagram the various interactions of x-rays and matter.
  23. Discuss the clinical significance of photoelectric effect and modified scattering in diagnostic imaging.
  24. Explain the impact of technical factor changes upon the x-ray beam characteristics.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Assessment of academic achievement will include a combination of tests, quizzes, assignments, presentations and participation.

General Course Requirements and Recommendations

Must obtain a grade of “C” or better to remain in the Radiography program.

Texts

Textbook(s) to be determined through program faculty approval.

Outcomes

Satisfies Wellness Requirement
No

Approval Dates

Effective Term
Fall 2022
ILT Approval Date
AALC Approval Date
Curriculum Committee Approval Date
Review Semester
Fall 2022