Certificate of Achievement
has completed the following course:
This course explained the processes within a nuclear reactor and what it means for an element to be radioactive. It explored how a functioning power station works and looks at the risks and consequences of using nuclear energy. The need for future energy planning was considered, with a look at other potential future solutions.
4 weeks, 3 hours per week
Dave Hall
University Secretary
The Open University
Transcript
Learning outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the physics of nuclear fission.
- Explore how a nuclear power station works.
- Explore and examine the problems associated with nuclear power. Weigh up and debate potential solutions to these problems.
- Assess the energy needs today and the part that nuclear power has to play.
- Compare and survey current and future technologies.
Syllabus
- Atomic physics and the nature of isotopes and radioactivity. The processes of fission and fusion.
- The distinction between energy of power and the increasing need to generate electrical power
- The use of nuclear fission in power stations. The production of radioactive waste and some solutions
- The cause of nuclear incidents in the past, the effect on the environment and local populations.
- The national grid and possible energy sources.
- Future developments in the technology that harnesses nuclear fission and fusion.
Issued on 18th July 2017
The person named on this certificate has completed the activities in the transcript above. For more information about Certificates of Achievement and the effort required to become eligible, visit futurelearn.com/proof-of-learning/certificate-of-achievement.
This certificate represents proof of learning. It is not a formal qualification, degree, or part of a degree.