Author

Carrie Beck

Date Approved

2004

Date Posted

9-1-2009

Degree Type

Open Access Senior Honors Thesis

Department or School

Mathematics

First Advisor

Professor Walter Parry

Abstract

The intent of this project is to derive a realistic mathematical model for radiation interactions with matter. The model may be solved analytically, but I will also employ two computational methods, a finite difference method and a stochastic (Monte Carlo) method to gain insight into the physical process and to test the numerical techniques. Radiation interactions with matter constitute a large number of important scientific, industrial, and medical applications. This project will derive a model for the interaction of radiation with matter, which might allow one to compare different designs for shielding. It is also applicable in atmospheric physics in studying how light penetrates clouds, or in astrophysics in describing solar radiation piercing through stellar atmospheres, or as a medical tool for imaging or cancer treatment.

Included in

Mathematics Commons

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