Fundamentals of particle accelerator technology (NPAP MOOC) from Coursera

Did you know that particle accelerators play an important role in many functions of todays society and that there are over 30 000 accelerators in operation worldwide? A few examples are accelerators for radiotherapy which are the largest application of accelerators, altogether with more than 11000 accelerators worldwide. These accelerators range from very compact electron linear accelerators with a length of only about 1 m to large carbon ion synchrotrons with a circumference of more than 50 m and a huge rotating carbon ion gantry with a weight of 600 tons!

There are also a growing number of synchrotron light sources in the world. The light in these sources are created by electrons that are accelerated to almost the speed of light. This light can reveal the molecular structures of materials and also take x-ray pictures of the inner structure of objects. Synchrotron light sources are very important in life sciences, material sciences and chemistry. Another type of accelerators are used in spallation sources, like the European Spallation Source in Lund, Sweden. Here protons are accelerated to very large energies. They produce neutrons when they are smashed into a disc of tungsten. These neutrons are used for finding the inner structure of objects and atomic structures of materials. Finally there are many accelerators for basic physics, like the large hadron collider in Cern.

This course takes you on a journey through the technologies used in particle accelerators: The microwave system which produce the electromagnetic waves that accelerate particles; The magnet technology for the magnets that guide and focus the beam of particles; The monitoring systems that determine the quality of the beam of particles; Finally the vacuum systems that create ultra high vacuum so that the accelerated particles do not collide with molecules and atoms. Exciting right!

The course is graded through quizzes, one for each of the four modules. Throughout the course there are also a number of training quizzes to offer you support. The four modules in the course are: RF-systems, Magnet technology, Beam diagnostics, and Vacuum techniques. In total there are 48 lectures, where each lecture is a 2-4 minutes long video presentation. Some of the lectures are followed by short texts with complementary information and all will hopefully be an exciting collection for you to engage with.

Have fun!

What's inside

Syllabus

RF-systems

This module is an introduction to the RF systems of particle accelerators. RF stand for radio frequency and indicates that the systems deal with electromagnetic waves with frequencies that are common for radio systems. The RF system generates electromagnetic waves and guides them down to cavities. The cavities are located along the beam pipe such that the particles pass through the cavities when they travel along the accelerator. When the waves enter the cavity they create as standing wave inside the cavity. it is the electric field of this standing wave that accelerates the particles. In the module we describe the amplifier, which generates and amplifies the electromagnetic waves. We describe different types of waveguides which transport the waves from the amplifier to the cavity. We also describe the most common types of cavities. Most of the system is described without equations but in the texts following the lectures you will find some of the theory for the RF-system.

Magnet technology for accelerators

This module is about the types of magnets that are used in particle accelerators. It introduces dipole magnets, quadrupole magnets, sextupole magnets and octupole magnets, and describe where these are needed and how they are designed. In the most common types of magnets, the magnetic field are produced by currents running in normal conducting wires. When large magnetic fields are required one use superconducting magnets and the module describe how these are designed. There are also cases when quite weakl magnetic fields are required and then one can use permanent magnets. This a green alternative since they have zero power consumption. The permanent magnets are also covered in this module.

Beam Diagnostics

In this module we describe how we can measure and monitor various beam parameters in a particle accelerator. We introduce a few examples of common instruments for each specific parameter, starting with beam intensity and beam position, followed by transverse distribution and beam emittance. We also present ways to monitor the longitudinal and the energy distribution. The last section describe how we can determine the amount of particles that the beam loose as it travels through the accelerator.

Basics of Vacuum techniques

This module gives an introduction to basic concepts of vacuum physics and techniques in accelerators. Vacuum regions and the behavior of residual gas in these regions are described. Important phenomena, such as velocity distribution, average collision distance and molecular formation are explained by Maxwell-Boltzmann theory. These phenomena are used to determine vacuum criteria for accelerator systems. Basic concepts of vacuum pumps will be described, and different types of vacuum equipment will be presented. The objective is that the students would understand the behavior of residual gas in Vacuum systems. They should be able to determine Vacuum criteria for a given system. They should also be able to choose proper equipment for Vacuum generation and measurement.

You have now successfully finalized the course!

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Well-suited for those who wish to learn the fundamentals and history of particle accelerators, as well as their role in medicine, research, and more

Taught by experts in the field from internationally recognized institutions who have earned acclaim for their work in physics

Useful for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of modern physics

Clear and well-structured, with each module building upon the previous one

Provides a strong overview of the fundamentals of particle accelerators, covering a range of topics

Includes a variety of media, such as videos, readings, and discussions, to enhance learning

Reviews summary

Informative course for accelerator fundamentals

Learners say this course is well-received and is very informative for gaining a fundamental understanding of particle accelerator technology. The course is structured with short videos accompanied by clear explanations, good illustrations, and engaging assignments. The course is particularly useful for accelerator users who want to learn more about the basics of the facilities they work with. However, some students find gaps between the spoken lectures and the more mathematical reading sections.

Short videos with clear explanations

"Very interesting course !Short videos with clear explanations and good pictures/illustrations"

"This course offers a great introdution to particle accelerators and is suitable to almost everyone!!"

"Excellent course, thank you so much. I am about to start a thesis at former IPNO in Orsay, and sure those knowledge will be of use."

Covers a lot of knowledge on accelerator technology

"This course covers a lot of knowledge about accelerator technology."

"Very informative course and touch many technical sectors."

"The content is instructive. I recommend this course for all users of accelerators who want to know the basics of the facilities they are using."

Instructors appear disinterested

"I do not recommend this course if you're intending to learn any deep concepts."

"The course instructors look like they don't want to be there, and are basically present to read from a script."

Gaps between spoken lectures and reading sections

"Very informative and well explained. Only drawback was that there was a bit of gap between the spoken lectures and the more mathematical reading sections."

"However, I noticed some gaps between quiz questions and the videos and there were small inaccuracies in the information given."

Week 4 transcripts have many unintelligible words/phrases

"Week 4 on vacuum technologies is the worst: I could barely make out many important terms."

"Even the transcripts describe many words/phrases as "unintelligible" and no one from the course team has decided to fix the transcripts to at least help with how incomprehensible things already are."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fundamentals of particle accelerator technology (NPAP MOOC) with these activities:

Review Vacuum System Fundamentals

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Reinforce foundational knowledge of Vacuum System Fundamentals to enhance comprehension of Vacuum Techniques

Browse courses on Vacuum Techniques

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Go through lecture notes or textbooks on Vacuum System Fundamentals
Solve practice problems related to vacuum pressure, gas flow, and pumping mechanisms

Discuss Magnet Alignment Techniques with Classmates

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Enhance understanding of Magnet Alignment Techniques through discussions and knowledge exchange with peers

Browse courses on Magnet Technology

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Identify specific Magnet Alignment Techniques relevant to the course
Organize a study group or discussion forum with classmates
Present your findings and discuss different approaches to Magnet Alignment
Summarize key takeaways and share them with the group

Practice RF Cavity Design Calculations

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Reinforce understanding of equations related to RF Cavity Design calculations to enhance comprehension of RF systems

Browse courses on RF Systems

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Review the principles of RF Cavity Design from the module 'RF-systems'
Solve practice problems on Cavity Resonant Frequencies, Q-factor, and Power Handling
Compare your solutions with provided answers or discuss them with classmates

Three other activities

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Explore Superconducting Magnet Fabrication Processes

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Deepen understanding of Superconducting Magnet fabrication techniques to expand knowledge of Magnet Technology

Browse courses on Magnet Technology

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Identify online tutorials or research papers on Superconducting Magnet Fabrication
Go through the tutorials or papers, taking notes on key concepts and techniques
Discuss your findings with classmates or a mentor

Develop a Beam Diagnostics Simulation Model

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Enhance practical skills in Beam Diagnostics by creating a simulation model that demonstrates beam behavior

Browse courses on Beam Diagnostics

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Choose a specific beam diagnostics technique to simulate
Design and implement a simulation model using appropriate software tools
Validate the model by comparing its results with experimental data or theoretical predictions
Present your model to classmates or a mentor for feedback

Create a Comprehensive Study Guide

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Consolidate learning by creating a comprehensive study guide that summarizes key concepts and materials from the course

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Gather notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams from the course
Organize and categorize the materials according to topics and concepts
Summarize and condense the information into a concise and coherent study guide
Review and refine the study guide regularly

Career center

Learners who complete Fundamentals of particle accelerator technology (NPAP MOOC) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Accelerator Maintenance Engineer

This course can supplement your engineering degree by providing you with the basic principles of the systems used in particle accelerators. It is particularly important if you wish to specialize in particle accelerator maintenance, as it covers the fundamentals of the monitoring systems that determine the quality of a beam of particles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Accelerator Maintenance Engineer

Medical Physicist

This course provides a fundamental understanding of the delivery of radiation therapy, which many medical physicists specialize in. The course's focus on the use of accelerators for cancer treatment can complement the education of those seeking a career in medical physics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Physicist

Radiation Protection Specialist

This course provides an introduction to the principles of radiation physics, which can aid those in the field of radiation protection. Understanding the systems used in particle accelerators can help you assess and mitigate risks associated with the use of radiation in various settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Radiation Protection Specialist

Accelerator Operator

This course can complement your technical background by providing a foundation in the different particle accelerator systems. This knowledge can enable you to effectively operate particle accelerators and contribute to their maintenance and repair.

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Research Scientist

This course can contribute to your preparation for conducting research utilizing particle accelerators in various fields such as high-energy physics, nuclear physics, and materials science. It offers a comprehensive overview of the underlying technologies, including RF systems, magnet technology, beam diagnostics, and vacuum techniques.

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Nuclear Engineer

This course may be supplementary to your coursework, as it covers the fundamentals of particle accelerators used for nuclear applications, including those used for cancer treatment and material analysis. Understanding these concepts can enhance your knowledge and expertise in nuclear engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Nuclear Engineer

Beamline Scientist

This course provides an overview of the different systems used in particle accelerators, which can be useful for understanding the operation and maintenance of beamlines. It covers RF systems, magnet technology, beam diagnostics, and vacuum techniques, offering a foundation for those seeking a career as a beamline scientist.

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Materials Scientist

This course may be useful if you are interested in applying particle accelerators to materials science. It offers insights into the use of synchrotron light sources and neutron sources for analyzing the structure and properties of materials.

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Electrical Engineer

This course can complement your electrical engineering background by providing a foundation in the principles of RF systems and their applications in particle accelerators. It covers the design and operation of amplifiers, waveguides, and cavities used in accelerating particles.

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Mechanical Engineer

This course can enhance your understanding of the mechanical aspects of particle accelerators, including magnet technology and vacuum systems. It provides insights into the design and operation of magnets used for beam guidance and focusing, as well as vacuum techniques for maintaining ultra-high vacuum conditions.

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Computer Scientist

This course may be relevant if you are interested in the control and automation of particle accelerators or the development of software for accelerator systems. It provides a basic understanding of the concepts in particle accelerator technology and the various systems involved.

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Physicist

This course can contribute to your knowledge and understanding of particle accelerator technology, which is used to accelerate charged particles in scientific research, medical applications, and industrial settings. It covers the principles of RF systems, magnet technology, beam diagnostics, and vacuum techniques.

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Engineering Physicist

This course can enhance your understanding of the engineering principles applied in particle accelerator technology. It covers the design, operation, and maintenance of particle accelerators, including RF systems, magnet technology, beam diagnostics, and vacuum systems.

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Science Educator

This course can provide you with a comprehensive overview of particle accelerator technology, which can be valuable for teaching physics or science at the high school or university level. It offers explanations and demonstrations of the concepts in a clear and concise manner.

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Technical Writer

This course may be helpful if you are interested in writing technical documentation or articles related to particle accelerator technology. It provides a thorough understanding of the concepts and terminology used in the field, enabling you to communicate complex technical information effectively.

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