Energy Physics II with Nuclear Energy
Syllabus, Master's level, 1FA403
- Code
- 1FA403
- Education cycle
- Second cycle
- Main field(s) of study and in-depth level
- Physics A1N
- Grading system
- Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with credit (4), Pass with distinction (5)
- Finalised by
- The Faculty Board of Science and Technology, 20 October 2022
- Responsible department
- Department of Physics and Astronomy
Entry requirements
120 credits. Participation in Nuclear Physics and Energy Physics I. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.
Learning outcomes
On completion of the course, the student should be able to
- explain the physical and technical principles of a fission reactor in particular of
- the power evolution in the reactor
- discuss future nuclear energy technologies like Generation IV reactors
thermonuclear fusion (magnetic confinement)
- explain reactor safety for different reactor types
- describe the uranium cycle from mining to geological repository
- explain and evaluate the role of different energy sources in today and future energy supply and describe the consequences of the use of these energy sources to supply the demand of electricity.
Content
Reactor physics, neutron cycle, criticality, power evolution, cooling, reactor safety. Reactor dynamics, PWR (Pressurized Water Reactor) and BWR (Boiling Water Reactor) basics. The uranium cycle. Different reactor types, fission power in the world. Generation IV: breeding and burn in fast reactors, advanced fuel cycles. Fusion: nuclear fusion reactions, plasma physics,
magnetic confinement, tokamak physics, technology of fusion reactors. Electricity distribution and integration of large- and small-scale production in the network. Role of different energy sources: fossil fuels, biofuel, hydro, wind, solar and nuclear.
Instruction
Lectures, tutorials, group discussions, home assignments, project work, computer exercise, study visits.
Assessment
Oral exam (5 credits). Home assignments and concept maps (3 credits). Study visit and computer exercise (1 credit). Oral and written presentation and opposition (1 credit).
If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.