The Physics of Particle Detectors (MVSpec)

Focus of the lecture is the physics and the layout of detector components used in modern particle physics experiments.

After understanding the interaction of radiation with matter, we will study how different materials and technologies are employed to measure charged and neutral particles. The working principles of gas and semiconductor detectors, of scintillators, calorimeters and other devices will be discussed. We will learn how different detectors can be employed to measure various properties of particles, such as position, momentum, energy, velocity, identity, etc. We will also see how different technologies are combined in general purpuse particle physics experiments, and how solutions are developed for specific applications.

Particle detectors enabled discoveries through decades of physics research, and they allow us to learn about the smallest, the hottest, the coldest, the most fundamental constituents of matter.

The course includes a 2h lecture (Mondays, 14:00-16:00) and a Journal Club (Fridays, 11:00-13:00).
We look forward to meet you in the course!