FYS9515B – Statistical Properties of Atomic Nuclei

Schedule, syllabus and examination date

Course content

In this course, you learn how the atomic nucleus behaves when it is gradually heated. You will get an introduction to the statistical properties of atomic nuclei and the models that describe these properties. The course combines a theoretical introduction to the topics and a hands-on data analysis of experimental data from the Oslo Cyclotron Laboratory.

Learning outcome

After completing this course, you can:

  • describe gamma decay, both discrete and statistical, transition probabilities, and the gamma strength function.
  • describe and explain the physics behind the fundamental statistical and thermodynamic models of the atomic nucleus.
  • analyze experimental data using the "Oslo method" to extract nuclear level densities and gamma strength functions.

Admission to the course

PhD candidates from the University of Oslo should apply for classes and register for examinations through Studentweb.

If a course has limited intake capacity, priority will be given to PhD candidates who follow an individual education plan where this particular course is included. Some national researchers’ schools may have specific rules for ranking applicants for courses with limited intake capacity.

PhD candidates who have been admitted to another higher education institution must apply for a position as a visiting student within a given deadline.

Overlapping courses

Teaching

The course is offered in the last half of the semester, with 6 hours of teaching per week. The teaching consists of lectures and hands-on work. The hands-on work consists of students analyzing experimental data.

Examination

  • Final oral exam which counts 100 % towards the final grade.

It will also be counted as one of the three attempts to sit the exam for this course, if you sit the exam for one of the following courses: FYS4515B – Statistical Properties of Atomic Nuclei

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a pass/fail scale. Read more about the grading system.

Resit an examination

Students who can document a valid reason for absence from the regular examination are offered a postponed exam at the beginning of the next semester.

New examinations are offered at the beginning of the next semester for students who do not successfully complete the exam during the previous semester.

We do not offer a re-scheduled exam for students who withdraw during the exam.

More about examinations at UiO

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.

Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Nov. 6, 2026 7:01:41 AM

Facts about this course

Level
PhD
Credits
5
Teaching
Autumn

Every other autumn semester starting from 2023.

If the course is offered, a minimum of four students is required for ordinary lectures to take place. If less than four students participate, an exam will be given, but one should not expect ordinary teaching.

Examination
Autumn
Teaching language
Norwegian (English on request)

Contact

Department of Physics