MePAS 2015: "Introduction to Accelerator Physics and Technology"

 

 

 

To whom is it addressed?

This is a basic and introductory course to the underlying principles and applications of the particle accelerators that are used worldwide in diverse areas like medicine, industry, security and scientific research. The school is suitable for senior undergraduate students and for master and PhD students in physics and engineering (mechanical, electronical, mechatronics,

 

What is the objective? 

The main objective of this course is to gain a basic understanding of the physical principles of particle accelerators and beams along with main applications and a basic knowledge of accelerator-related technologies. Upon course completion, students will understand underlying mechanisms of particle accelerators, as well as how relevant properties of the beam are measured.

 

What is the teaching method?

The course is made by a series of lectures during morning sessions, followed by simulations sessions and seminars. Simulations will be focused on accelerator optics design. Homework problems will be assigned on a daily basis and instructors will be available to help answer questions about homework and lectures during the evening "Homework & Tutorial" sessions. There will be a final exam (or final project) on the last day of the school.  

 

What I am going to learn?

There will be a review of the relevant special relativity and electromagnetic theory concepts. Instructors will examine the historical development of accelerators, present and future applications. The topics to be covered are:

• Principles of acceleration.

• Physics of linear accelerators, synchrotrons and storage rings.

• Main accelerator and beam parameters.

• Basic components such as bending and focusing magnets.

• Beam diagnostics.

• Radio frequency accelerating structures.

• Basic beam dynamics: longitudinal and transverse.

• Introduction to synchrotron radiation, free electron lasers and synchrotron light sources.

• Special subjects: collective effects, non-linear effects and safety.

 

Do I get a grade at the end of the course?

Students will be evaluated based on performance: homework assignments (40%), final project (30%) and final exam (30%).