Teaching with Virtual Neutrons: The McMaster Neutron Instrument Simulator

The McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) is a 5 MW research reactor located on the campus of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. The MNR is currently the most powerful neutron source in Canada, and the only facility in the country which uses neutron beams for materials research. From a physics education standpoint, the MNR offers many exciting opportunities for teaching and learning, including undergraduate laboratories, student research projects, and specialized courses and workshops. In particular, the majority of physics education efforts at the MNR have focused on neutron scattering – a powerful experimental technique which is used to study the structure of materials (where the atoms are) as well as their dynamics (how the atoms move). However, the nature of the learning environment at the MNR can introduce significant challenges, including security, ease of access, health and safety, and availability of beamtime. To address these challenges, we have developed a virtual Neutron Instrument Simulator (bit.ly/MacNeutronSim) which can be used to illustrate the basic principles of neutron scattering, and carry out simple virtual lab experiments. In this presentation, we will discuss the teaching and learning goals for this project, demonstrate the current version of the simulator, and describe the initial feedback and response from student learners. We will also present ideas for new features and improvements, and discuss potential strategies for course implementation.