The existential crisis we face due to global climate change has brought renewed interest in nuclear energy as a means of reducing and/or eliminating carbon emissions (net zero CO2 emission goals). Recent advances in fission reactor technology such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and in plasma and fusion reactor science (the “breakeven” experiment at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory) hold promise for achieving these goals. In this course students will learn 1) an historical and contextual perspective for nuclear energy; 2) fundamental physics of radioactivity, fission, and fusion; 3) how nuclear reactors work; 4) safety and risk of nuclear power; 5) recycling, radioactive waste disposal, and life cycle considerations; and 6) current developments regarding advanced systems. We’ll also discuss the socio-economic and socio-political issues that have confronted, and will confront, future development of nuclear energy.
NOTE: This course is intended for anyone interested in the subject matter. A background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics is not necessary or required.