Nuclear Power: A Very Short Introduction

Description

With the World desperate to find energy sources that do not emit carbon gasses, nuclear power is back on the agenda and in the news, following the increasing cost of fossil fuels and concerns about the security of their future supply. However, the term 'nuclear power' causes anxiety in many people and there is confusion concerning the nature and extent of the associated risks. Here, Maxwell Irvine presents a concise introduction to the development of nuclear physics leading up to the emergence of the nuclear power industry. He discusses the nature of nuclear energy and deals with various aspects of public concern, considering the risks of nuclear safety, the cost of its development, and waste disposal. Dispelling some of the widespread confusion about nuclear energy, Irvine considers the relevance of nuclear power, the potential of nuclear fusion, and encourages informed debate about its potential.

Reviews

Here's your chance to become an instant expert. - The Times.

Table of contents

1. A new science is born; 2. A new technology is developed; 3. Thermal nuclear reactors; 4. Nuclear fuel reprocessing and radioactive waste management; 5. Nuclear safety; 6. The cost of nuclear power; 7. Nuclear fusion power; 8. The need for nuclear power; Appendix