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From Physics to Power – The Latest Developments in Nuclear Energy (How to Cure Cancer, Go to Space & Save the World) – Tutorial with Dr Thomas Haynes from University of East Anglia
January 28 @ 09:10 - 09:55
In this Physics session, Dr Thomas Haynes, Lecturer in Nuclear Engineering in the School of Engineering, Mathematics and Physics at University of East Anglia, will run an interactive talk for students entitled From Physics to Power – The Latest Developments in Nuclear Energy (How to Cure Cancer, Go to Space & Save the World).
The full context/introduction to this live and interactive discussion is provided in a Headliner recorded video below. This recording can be watched as a class activity or independently in preparation for the session.
Nuclear Science & Technology is undergoing a renaissance, offering the intriguing capability to save the planet, cure cancer and go to space. It is also very much the domain of the polymath – bringing together Physicists, Material Scientists, Chemists, Engineers, Geologists, Computer Scientists, Biologists and even Economists!
The pre-recorded video will give an overview of the physical processes at play – fission, neutron multiplication, moderation, heat transfer and feedback.
The interactive session will seek to understand why different reactors are designed in different ways, from large baseload pressurised water reactors like Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C; to economically-advantageous small modular reactors; to high temperature reactors decarbonising industry; to molten salt reactors eating their own waste.
Finally, we look at why nuclear energy is important in space exploration and healthcare and how special fuel and reactors are needed for each of these applications.
Lecturer Profile: Dr Thomas Haynes
Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. There is no charge to take part.
As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.
Suitable for: Aged 16+ pre-university students studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Physics, Engineering and related STEM disciplines. Student groups as well as students and teachers joining individually are very welcome.
Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students may wish to consider the topic in advance and questions they have. Students can also think about questions about studying at university level.
The IT Setup: The event will be run on Zoom and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the speaker via typed comments and questions and/or via a microphone. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.
Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below: