Discover the science behind nuclear energy and its role in energy provision in the past, present and future.
With the need to reduce carbon emissions around the world, the way we generate our power has to change and nuclear energy is back on the political agenda. But do you know your fission from your fusion? Would you like the knowledge to make an informed decision?
The question of whether we should get electricity from nuclear power remains a tough one for governments all over the world. While it offers a sustainable, low carbon and secure way of meeting our energy needs, big questions surround the economic viability, the perceived dangers and the public acceptability associated with power plant operations and radioactive wastes.
Nuclear power stations currently generate around 18 per cent of the UK's electricity production. The majority of the current reactors are scheduled to be decommissioned by 2023 and we could be facing an energy 'gap'.
This free course, The science of nuclear energy, will delve into the science behind nuclear power and explain what happens inside a nuclear reactor and what it means for an element to be radioactive. It will explore some of the risks of producing nuclear power and examine the arguments for and against including it in future energy planning as well as looking at other potential future solutions.
The course does not assume any prior knowledge of nuclear energy and can be enjoyed by anyone interested in science and becoming more informed of energy choices.
This course is also available to study on FutureLearn, where you have the opportunity to purchase a FutureLearn certificate on completion.This OpenLearn science course is produced with the kind support of Dangoor Education, the educational arm of The Exilarch's Foundation.
Course learning outcomes
After studying this course, you should be able to:
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understand the physics of nuclear fusion
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understand how a nuclear power station works
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weigh up and debate potential solutions to the problems associated with nuclear power
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assess the energy needs today and the part that nuclear power has to play
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identify current and future technologies.
First Published: 02/11/2015
Updated: 20/12/2019
The course is starting, sadly, to show its age; it is some 10 years old, the world has changed in many ways over the past decade and some of the information is no longer correct. Some key examples are:
1. Mention was made in the National Grid segment to the Ironbridge (coal fired) power station. This plant ceased operation in November 2015 & was fully decommissioned & demolished by late 2021. The site has planning permission for around 1000 homes & other utilities.
2. Hinckley Point C has suffered major cost increases & construction delays: it may not now come into service until 2031 & the costs continue to spiral.
3. ITER: the UK pulled out of this project in late 2023 (due in large part to Brexit) & the British Government declined an invitation to rejoin offered by the remaining partners in early 2024.
On the basis of the above, and other minor redundancies/changes to the information &/or context that have occurred over the years, I believe strongly that the course content should be reviewed and revised as necessary to maintain its relevance.