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Accelerator Physics

Code: 104048
Credits: 6
2026/2027
Degree programme Type Course
Physics OP 4

Contact lecturer

Name :
Caterina Biscari
Email :
caterina.biscari@uab.cat

Teaching staff (external to UAB)

Gabriele Benedetti

Group languages

You can consult this information at the end of the document.

Prerequisites


There are no formal prerequisites but knowledge of classical mechanics, electromagnetism and special relativity are assumed

Objectives


It is an introduction to the physics of particle accelerators and their applications, with special emphasis on the sources of synchrotron light.

Learning outcomes

  1.  Carry out academic work independently using bibliography (especially in English), databases and through collaboration with other professionals
  2. Communicate complex information in an effective, clear and concise manner, either orally, in writing or through ICTs, in front of both specialist and general publics.
  3. Use critical reasoning, show analytical skills, correctly use technical language and develop logical arguments
  4. Work independently, take initiative itself, be able to organize to achieve results and to plan and execute a project.
  5. Working in groups, assume shared responsibilities and interact professionally and constructively with others, showing absolute respect for their rights.
  6. Determine type of photon source based on applications, differentiating between dipoles, wigglers and undulators
  7. Describe the different types of particle accelerators currently in use: Linacre, cyclotrons, synchrotrons, etc. and their major applications
  8. Describe the different types of magnets, from permanent magnets, ferromagnetic and superconductors used in accelerators
  9. Carry out the basic design of an optical accumulation ring or synchrotron defining the Twiss parameters and the characteristics of radio frequency
  10. Measure the quality of the magnetic field for magnets
  11. Use control-room instrumentation for measuring emittance and energy spread at the Linac
  12. Describe the technology of radio frequency cavities
  13. Describe the basics of dynamic transverse and longitudinal beam
  14. Calculate the frequency of revolution in synchrotrons based on particle types and their energy
  15. Calculate the luminosity of a hadron, differentiating between circular and linear hadrons.
  16. Demonstrate an understanding of the bases to the applications of a synchrotron light source
  17. Demonstrate an understanding of the basics of plasma acceleration
  18. Define the main characteristics of a hadron depending on the energy and luminosity required.
  19. Use matrix treatment in the definition of Twiss parameters.
  20. Use simulation codes for dynamic-opening calculations.
  21. Identify situations in which a change or improvement is needed.
  22. Identify the social, economic and environmental implications of academic and professional activities within one's own area of knowledge.
  23. Understand the different types of accelerators, radiation-emitting equipment and radioactive sources for medical applications.
  24. Explain the explicit or implicit code of practice of one's own area of knowledge.

Contents


Introduction to accelerators and their applications.


Principles of acceleration and transport of particle beams.


Basic concepts of radio frequency, magnet and vacuum systems.


Description of the transversal and longitudinal dynamics of particle beams and the characteristics of the synchrotron radiation.


Description of the different types of accelerators, with more emphasis on the synchrotron light sources and their usefulness.


Basic concepts of the simulation of beam dynamics programs.


Two experimental practices in the Alba Synchrotron.

Learning activities and methodology

Title Hours ECTS Learning outcomes
Experimental sessions at ALBA 10 0.4
Solving problems 16 0.64
Tutoring on solving exercises 9 0.36
Theory lessons 30 1.2
Elaboration of a report on the experimental sessions 9 0.36
Study 58 2.32



The course is structured in theoretical classes (30 hours), completion of exercises (9 hours) and completion of experimental work (10 hours)

Annotation: within the schedule set by the centre or degree programme, 15 minutes of one class will be reserved for students to evaluate their lecturers and their courses or modules through questionnaires.

Assessment

Continuous assessment activities

Title Weight Hours ECTS Learning outcomes
First partial 40% 3 0.12 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 13, 14, 19, 21, 22, 24
Report on experimental sessions 20% 9 0.36 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 14, 19, 20, 21
Recovery Exam 80% 3 0.12 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Second partial 40% 3 0.12 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24
Partial exams 1 and 2 (40% + 40% of the final grade) done in the middle and end of the semester.Report on experimental work (20% of the final grade)The examination of recovery allows to improve the results of the partial examinations.

Single Assessment: practices are mandatory. The evaluation of the subject (80%) will be carried out on the scheduled day of the second term. It will consist of a theory section and a problem section. The internship reports (20%) will be delivered the same day.
 

Bibliography

http://cds.cern.ch/record/425460/files/CERN-2005-004.pdf

http://cds.cern.ch/record/603056/files/full_document.pdf

Software

OPA - Optics Design for Accelerators - Free  (PSI) - will be provided during the lectures

Course groups and languages

The information provided is provisional until November 30. After this date, you will be able to consult the language of each group through this link. To access the information, you will need to enter the course CODE

Type of teaching Group Language Semester Shift
(TE) Theory 1 Catalan second semester morning-mixed
(PAUL) Classroom practices 1 Catalan second semester morning-mixed