Course Description

 

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.

 

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

- Understand the physics of nuclear fusion

- Understand how a nuclear power station works

- Weigh up and debate potential solutions to the problems associated with nuclear power

- Assess the energy needs today and the part that nuclear power has to play

- Identify current and future technologies.