Quantum Mechanics Required for Nuclear Engineering?

In summary, the University of Wisconsin Madison's nuclear engineering curriculum only includes a basic introduction to quantum mechanics through an introductory physics course and a modern physics course. The only course with a significant QM content is the modern physics course, which uses Tipler's Modern Physics text. This means that unless one has elective credits, there is no in-depth coverage of QM in the nuclear engineering program at UW-Madison.
  • #1
lonely_nucleus
108
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I know that nuclear engineering requires some quantum mechanics but I want to know how much. Are there any textbooks that can fulfill the requirements for quantum mechanics in terms of nuclear engineering? I have heard of this book and I am a fan of old fashioned text:https://www.amazon.com/dp/0486659844/?tag=pfamazon01-20
will this book include enough quantum mechanics for nuclear engineering? If it will not can I please have some book suggestions
?

If anyone has the time it would be nice to consider what order of reading these books would you all reccomend to study nuclear engineering? Here are the books: https://www.amazon.com/dp/047180553X/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0471979368/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0201824981/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0486649407/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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  • #2
Have you looked through the curriculum at a particular university?

This is an example from UW-Madison Nuclear Engineering Dept.

http://www.engr.wisc.edu/cmsdocuments/NE-UGguide2014.pdf

Notice that other than the exposure you get to quantum physics in the Intro Physics courses, the only other course with a significant QM content is the course in Modern Physics, i.e. Physics 241/205. This is a rather elementary introduction to SR and very basic QM, and when I was there, we used Tipler's Modern Physics text. Those in Chemistry and Physics would take this class and then go on to take a more intense, undergraduate QM courses.

So no, you do not have an in-depth coverage of QM, unless you have elective credits to go off on your own.

Zz.
 
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Likes lonely_nucleus
  • #3
ZapperZ said:
Have you looked through the curriculum at a particular university?

This is an example from UW-Madison Nuclear Engineering Dept.

http://www.engr.wisc.edu/cmsdocuments/NE-UGguide2014.pdf

Notice that other than the exposure you get to quantum physics in the Intro Physics courses, the only other course with a significant QM content is the course in Modern Physics, i.e. Physics 241/205. This is a rather elementary introduction to SR and very basic QM, and when I was there, we used Tipler's Modern Physics text. Those in Chemistry and Physics would take this class and then go on to take a more intense, undergraduate QM courses.

So no, you do not have an in-depth coverage of QM, unless you have elective credits to go off on your own.

Zz.
Interesting that you picked that university, I am planning on getting a scholarship there. Did you study at the University of Wisconsin Madison, if that's true then what did you study there? Thank you for the reply friend, I believe you answered my question very straight forwardly.
 
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1. What is quantum mechanics and why is it required for nuclear engineering?

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. It is required for nuclear engineering because it helps us understand the behavior of particles within an atom, which is crucial for understanding nuclear reactions and the design of nuclear reactors.

2. What are some key concepts in quantum mechanics that are relevant to nuclear engineering?

Some key concepts in quantum mechanics that are relevant to nuclear engineering include wave-particle duality, quantum tunneling, and the uncertainty principle. These concepts help us understand the behavior of particles and their interactions within an atom, which is essential for nuclear engineering.

3. How does quantum mechanics explain the phenomenon of nuclear decay?

Quantum mechanics explains nuclear decay by describing it as a random and spontaneous process. According to quantum mechanics, the nucleus of an unstable atom has a probability of decaying at any given moment, and this probability is determined by the laws of quantum mechanics.

4. How is quantum mechanics used in the design of nuclear reactors?

Quantum mechanics is used in the design of nuclear reactors to understand and predict the behavior of particles within the reactor, such as the movement of neutrons and the likelihood of nuclear reactions. This allows engineers to design safe and efficient nuclear reactors.

5. Are there any challenges or limitations in applying quantum mechanics to nuclear engineering?

Yes, there are some challenges and limitations in applying quantum mechanics to nuclear engineering. One of the main challenges is the complexity of the calculations involved, as quantum mechanics deals with systems of particles rather than individual particles. Additionally, the uncertainty principle and the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics can make it difficult to predict and control certain nuclear reactions. However, ongoing research and advancements in technology are helping to overcome these challenges.

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