Physics: Gamma Radiation – Seeing The Smallest Things – University Tutorial With Professor Paddy Regan From University of Surrey

In this live interactive Physics tutorial, we will be joined by Paddy Regan, Professor of Nuclear Metrology at the University of Surrey and the Department Head of Science, Medical, Marine and Nuclear at the National Physical Laboratory. Paddy will discuss:

Atomic nuclei account for more than 99.9% of the observable mass in the universe, yet correspond to the tiniest of quantum objects, with diameters of less than one million, millionth of a centimetre. The size of these nuclear objects means that their properties and characteristics obey quantum mechanical laws based on the fundamental forces of nature. In interactive event, Professor Paddy Regan will demonstrate how the measurement of high-frequency radiation (known as gamma rays) can be used to ‘see’ inside nature’s smallest building blocks and how this information can be used to understand some of the biggest questions in science such as how old is the earth and where were the elements of life created?

The full context/introduction to this live and interactive discussion is provided by the university in a Headliner recorded resource (see below) which offers insights into the key academic research and debate related to this fascinating topic. This recording can be watched as a class activity or independently in preparation for the discussion.

The session aims to deepen students’ understanding of the topic whilst enabling them to access and experience a live online university tutorial.

The Headliner recording is below (Please note there is occasionally some fading in and out of the audio but we hope you will still get the full benefit from the resource).

Lecturer Profile (Please Click): Professor Paddy Regan

Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom, or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. This means that sessions will continue irrespective of possible school closures.

As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but access to the Headliner recording will continue to be accessible.

Suitable for: Key Stage 5, and equivalent, students studying or with an interest in studying Physics and related subjects. Teachers and members of school staff, as always, are welcome too and participants can join as individuals from school/college or home, or as a group from school/college.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students are asked to watch the Headliner recording and consider some of the key issues.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Bluejeans and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the university via a microphone and/or typed comments and questions. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below: