Skip to main content
PHY456Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Nuclear Reactor Physics

This course, Nuclear Reactor Physics, provides a platform for understanding the principles involved in the practical application of nuclear energy through the development and operation of nuclear reactors. It covers neutron dynamics, interactions, and thermalization. The course also explains nuclear fission and fusion reactions, reactor criticality, and different types of nuclear reactors, including their components and functions. It aims to show how nuclear energy can be controlled.

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

156h
Study Time
13
Weeks
12h
Per Week
intermediate
Math Level
Course Keywords
Nuclear ReactorNeutron PhysicsFissionFusionCriticality

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📊
Math Level
Moderate Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Neutron Interactions

2

Cross Sections

3

Thermalization

4

Neutron Moderation

5

Transport Equation

6

Diffusion Equation

7

Nuclear Fission

8

Nuclear Fusion

9

Reactor Criticality

10

Nuclear Reactor Types

11

Reactor Components

Total Topics11 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic Physics

Calculus

Introduction to Nuclear Engineering

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (2 methods)

tutor-marked assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

end of course examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Nuclear Engineer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Reactor Operator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Radiation Safety Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Nuclear Physicist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Energy Policy Analyst

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Nuclear Power GenerationNuclear MedicineResearchDefenseEnvironmental Monitoring

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Neutron Physics

4h

Unit 1: Neutron Physics

4 study hours
  • Understand neutron interactions with nuclei
  • Solve problems related to cross sections
  • Study neutron dynamics
Week
2

Module 1: Neutron Physics

4h

Unit 2: Thermalisation

4 study hours
  • Explain neutron moderation
  • Analyze the passage of neutrons through moderating materials
  • Discuss the choice of moderators
Week
3

Module 2:

4h

Unit 1: Transport Equation and Diffusion Equation

4 study hours
  • Understand Fick's Law
  • Study the equation of continuity
  • Analyze neutron flux and current
Week
4

Module 2:

4h

Unit 2: Nuclear Reactions

4 study hours
  • Explain nuclear fission and fusion
  • Discuss the criticality of a reactor
  • Solve problems related to neutron yield
Week
5

Module 3:

4h

Unit 1: Nuclear Reactor

4 study hours
  • Classify different types of nuclear reactors
  • Identify the components of a nuclear reactor
  • Explain the function of each component
Week
6

Module 1: Neutron Physics

3h

Unit 1: Neutron Physics

3 study hours
  • Review neutron interactions and cross sections
  • Practice problems on neutron dynamics
Week
7

Module 1: Neutron Physics

3h

Unit 2: Thermalisation

3 study hours
  • Review neutron moderation and thermalization
  • Solve problems on slowing down of neutrons
Week
8

Module 2:

3h

Unit 1: Transport Equation and Diffusion Equation

3 study hours
  • Review Fick's law and the equation of continuity
  • Practice problems on neutron transport and diffusion
Week
9

Module 2:

3h

Unit 2: Nuclear Reactions

3 study hours
  • Review nuclear fission and fusion reactions
  • Solve problems on reactor criticality
Week
10

Module 3:

3h

Unit 1: Nuclear Reactor

3 study hours
  • Review classification of nuclear reactors
  • Identify and explain the function of reactor components
Week
11

Assignments and Revision

4h

Module 1 Assignments

4 study hours
  • Complete assignments on neutron physics and thermalization
Week
12

Assignments and Revision

4h

Module 2 Assignments

4 study hours
  • Complete assignments on transport, diffusion, and nuclear reactions
Week
13

Assignments and Revision

4h

Module 3 Assignments and Final Revision

4 study hours
  • Complete assignments on nuclear reactor types and components
  • Final revision of all course materials

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all self-assessment questions at the end of each unit

2

Practice solving numerical problems related to cross sections and neutron flux

3

Create concept maps linking neutron interactions, thermalization, and diffusion

4

Focus on understanding the different types of nuclear reactors and their components

5

Review and understand the equations related to reactor criticality and buckling factor

Related Courses

Other courses in Sciences that complement your learning