Nuclear medicine technologists administer radioactive materials to patients, operate scanners and earn a salary similar to that of a registered nurse. Salaries vary based on education, experience, specialization, facility type and geographic location. Urban areas and certain US states pay higher salaries. A nuclear medicine technologist is a healthcare professional who has completed specialized training […]
Nuclear engineering involves working with radiation and radioactive materials to design processes for power generation, industry, and medicine. It requires extensive training in advanced mathematics, chemistry, and physics. Nuclear energy is used in power generation, medical applications, and environmental preservation. Nuclear engineers work to develop safer equipment, protocols, and methods for handling nuclear waste. Nuclear […]
Nuclear law covers the use, development, and study of nuclear materials for peaceful purposes, including medical treatment and energy generation. It is a complex area of law that regulates safety procedures, liability, and access to radioactive isotopes. International nuclear law focuses on non-proliferation, safety during transport, and making isotopes available for research and medical purposes. […]
Nuclear physics studies atomic nuclei and their manipulation. It has many applications, including medical imaging, cancer treatment, nuclear engineering, and radiocarbon dating. A career in nuclear physics requires a bachelor’s degree and graduate-level work. Nuclear physics is a branch of the field of physics concerned with the structure of atomic nuclei and with understanding potential […]
Nuclear reactions alter the properties of an atom’s nucleus, changing it into a different isotope or element. They can take many forms, including fission and fusion, and release energy. Particles emitted include alpha and beta particles, neutrons, and gamma rays. A nuclear reaction is a process that occurs when the nucleus of an atom loses […]
Strategies for surviving a nuclear attack include “duck and cover,” waiting before going outside, taking potassium iodide, and avoiding broken glass and flying debris. Radioactivity is not always fatal, and the greatest danger is from heat and explosion. After the attack, don’t panic, avoid exposed food and water, and help fight fires to minimize further […]
A nuclear pharmacist handles radioactive substances to diagnose and treat conditions, requiring specialized training in handling and understanding radiation. They are responsible for safely storing and transporting radioactive materials and informing patients and colleagues of risks and benefits. Some may pursue research careers to make nuclear pharmacy safer and more effective. Nuclear pharmacy was recognized […]
This article looks at the classification schemes for nuclear reactors, including the type of nuclear reaction, moderator material, coolant, generation, fuel phase, fuel type, and use. It focuses on fission reactors, which have been in use for over 60 years, and distinguishes between thermal and fast neutron reactors. Other classification schemes include generation, fuel phase, […]
A nuclear physicist specializes in producing energy from radioactive materials and may work in nuclear energy, weapons production, or nuclear medicine. A strong background in physics, math, and computer science is needed, along with an advanced degree in nuclear engineering. Ancillary skills like computer programming or business management can also be useful. Keeping up with […]
The strong nuclear force is the strongest force in the universe, but only operates on atomic nucleus length scales. It is mediated by gluons and holds quarks together. The force decreases in strength as quarks get closer together, and theories of it emerged in the 1950s. Quark stars may exist, but their existence has yet […]
The proliferation of nuclear weapons and materials is a concern for many nations, leading to the drafting of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. The development of nuclear weapons began in the 1930s and accelerated during the 1950s and 1960s. Several countries possess nuclear weapons, including non-signatories to the NPT. The concern is that nuclear weapons could […]
Nuclear terrorism is the hypothetical possibility of terrorists obtaining and using radioactive materials for destructive purposes, such as a “dirty bomb” or a nuclear weapon. Security experts consider it a plausible risk, and some terrorist groups have expressed interest in obtaining materials. There have been few concrete cases of evidence, but in 2006, MI5 warned […]
Nuclear fusion is the process of combining atoms to form a heavier nucleus, releasing or absorbing energy. It is different from nuclear fission, which involves splitting atoms. Fusion is a source of energy and is how stars generate energy. The challenge is bringing atoms with the same charge close enough to fuse, which is achieved […]
Nuclear weapons release a large amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation, causing physical destruction and harm to human, animal, and plant life. They also have political implications and are considered weapons of mass destruction. Control of nuclear weapons remains a significant issue. Nuclear weapons are explosive devices that unleash a tremendous […]
Nuclear weapons are categorized as fission or fusion bombs, with variants such as salt bombs and neutron bombs. They can have a range of yields and sizes, from the powerful Tsar Bomba to small warheads like the Davy Crockett. Early designs used small cannons, while modern designs use implosion assemblies. The military favors small to […]
Nuclear fallout is dangerous radiation that affects dust particles and debris after a nuclear explosion. It can be fatal, and there are steps to increase safety. Fallout travels on wind currents, and there are no perfect maps. Those within 30 miles are likely to receive a lethal dose of radiation. Steps to increase safety include […]
A nuclear power reactor operator is responsible for safe operation of a nuclear power plant, including routine tasks, monitoring reactor systems, adjusting control rods and cooling systems, and managing startup and shutdown. They must follow safety protocols, communicate effectively with subordinates and supervisors, and exercise management skills. A nuclear power reactor operator is responsible for […]
Nuclear scientists conduct research on particles in and around atomic nuclei, specializing in theoretical physics or applied research. They work in various settings, including universities, laboratories, power plants, and hospitals. They develop new technologies in medicine and industry, and may work as professors. Advanced degrees are necessary, and experience leads to more responsibilities. Nuclear scientists […]
A nuclear safety officer is responsible for securing entry, verifying identification, monitoring protected areas, and checking vehicles at nuclear power plants to prevent unauthorized access and potential disasters. A nuclear safety officer is specially trained to help reduce the risks that occur at nuclear power plants. This position is similar to other security jobs, but […]
A nuclear medicine thyroid scan uses radioactive iodine to measure thyroid function and diagnose conditions such as hyperthyroidism, goiter, and thyroid cancer. The patient takes a pill containing the tracer, and the scan measures how quickly the thyroid absorbs it. A second scan is usually done after 18 hours for a detailed insight into thyroid […]
