Nuclear Power

It involves the conversion of small amounts of matter into energy as atomic nuclei split or join

Nuclear fission involves the splitting of nuclei of large atoms

Nuclear fusion involves the joining of the nuclei of small atoms

Nuclear fission

The nuclei of the isotope of some elements with large nuclei may be split if they are hit by neutrons, releasing more neutrons + large amounts of energy

Power output of nuclear reactors normally change quite slowly so nuclear power is usually used for base load electricity supplies that are needed all the time

Factors restricting growth of nuclear power

  • Technology is very complex so it's difficult to use in less technologically advanced societies which can't support the industrial infrastructure needed

  • Complex technology involved is very expensive

  • Strong public opposition to nuclear power in some countries because of concerns over safety

  • Concerns about possible links between nuclear materials for civil uses + military or terrorist uses

  • Uncertainty over permanent disposal of radioactive waste

  • Uncertainty over the total costs of nuclear power since no commercial reactor has been fully decommissioned

Sensing

Direct sensing

  • Geiger counter

    • Detects beta particles/gamma rays/radioactive emissions

  • Scintillation counter

    • Measures ionising radiation

  • Trial drilling

    • Produces rock samples for confirmation of ore presence/ concentration

remote sensing

  • Magnetometry

    • Variations in magnetic fields

  • Gravimetry

    • Variations in gravitational fields

  • (Gamma rays) Spectroscopy

    • Radiation dected used to identify presence of ore

  • Seismic surveys

    • Reflected sound waves give information about the depth, density + shape of deposit

Reducing radiation

  • Use of radiation absorbing material

  • Set dose limits/ doesmenters/ photographic film

  • Maximum time for exposure

  • Dust suppression/ ventilation/ monitoring of air/ dust/ surfaces

  • Romote handling of material (tailings/ ore)

  • Minimum distance from source/ inverse square law

  • Clothing/ respiratory protection

  • Use of radioactive detection equipment

  • Decontamination procedures