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In 2023, the IAEA ‘Nuclear Explained’ series continued to make complex subjects within the nuclear field accessible and comprehensible for curious minds. Whether seeking answers about isotopes or exploring ways to mitigate the risk of food fraud with the help of nuclear techniques — the IAEA explainers had it covered.
Here are the top five ‘Nuclear Explained’ articles read by global audiences this year:
Amidst nuclear energy making history at COP28 and discussions about its role in addressing climate change, our explainer on SMRs was the most read in 2023. Today over 80 commercial SMR designs are in development globally, intended for diverse purposes like generating electricity, supporting hybrid energy systems, enabling water desalination, and producing steam for industrial applications. But what are SMRs exactly and what advantages could they have? We have answered these questions and more here.
The energy that powers the sun and other stars ... Ever since the theory of nuclear fusion was understood in the 1930s, scientists — and increasingly also engineers — have been on a quest to recreate and harness it. If nuclear fusion can be replicated on earth at an industrial scale, it could provide virtually limitless clean, safe, and affordable energy to meet the world’s demand. But what is it exactly and where do we stand on fusion technology development? This article explains the facts behind fusion energy.
Radiation facilitates medical breakthroughs, aids environmental initiatives and fuels scientific advancements. We are constantly exposed to it in our everyday life. Some of the most familiar sources of radiation include the sun, microwave ovens in our kitchens and the radios we listen to in our cars. Most of this radiation carries no risk to our health. But some types do. What are different types of radiation? What is radiation good for? Do we need to protect ourselves from it? — this comprehensive guide answers these questions and explains the phenomenon. Read it here.
Uranium is a vital component for the production of nuclear fuel, it is also among the more common elements in the earth’s crust. And just like any other element, uranium comes in several variations. In response to global interest in this subject, we put together an explainer, that covers the most frequently asked questions about uranium, ranging from its isotopes and uses, to enrichment and mining. Read the full article on Uranium here.
A radioactive gas that has no colour, smell or taste, radon is produced in the ground from uranium and diffuses into the atmosphere. Accounting for around a half of all human exposure to radiation, this gas is also the most common cause of lung cancer after smoking. It occurs naturally in significant quantities in three different chemical variations, or isotopes, but only two of these present a risk. In this article we explain the facts about radon and address the most common concerns: Read the full article.
Find more “Nuclear Explained” articles, as well as videos and podcasts in this series, here.
