U.S. Particle Accelerator School
U.S. Particle Accelerator School
Education in Beam Physics and Accelerator Technology

Accelerator Fundamentals course

Sponsoring University:

The University of Texas at Austin

Course:

Accelerator Fundamentals (undergraduate)

Instructors:

Michael Syphers, Brookhaven National Laboratory and Linda Spentzouris, Fermilab

Introduction to particle accelerator fundamentals and basic beam physics. Emphasis will be on design and operation of circular accelerators. Comparisons with other accelerators will be discussed. The basic underlying physics of phenomena studied and the techniques for calculation will be stressed, including the use of personal computers. Topics will be divided into three categories: (1) magnets, optics and lattice design, betatron oscillations and tune; (2) RF systems, synchrotron oscillations; (3) other more specialized topics such as correction systems, beam transfers, space charge effects, and beam instabilities. Measurement techniques of accelerator and beam properties will also be discussed.  Prerequisites include introductory college physics and first year calculus. Familiarity with personal computers is useful, but not mandatory.