What is nuclear science?
Nuclear science is the study of the atomic world.
Everything is made of atoms. We are entirely composed of them, as is everything that surrounds us. Even a cubic centimetre of air contains some 25 billion billion molecules made up of a combination of atoms of elements, mainly nitrogen and oxygen.
Learning what atoms do and what happens when they combine is of critical importance. It has a constant effect on our lives.
If we know how atoms get together, or can be best combined with others, new, more efficient materials and drugs can be developed through 'molecular engineering' and 'rational drug design'.
Investigation of matter at the atomic level is one of the most important fields of scientific research.
Scientists using instruments attached to ANSTO's OPAL nuclear research reactor are using neutrons to probe matter. Research programs include investigations into:
- how the human body breaks down fats by examining the fat-busting molecules of the digestive system. The research could deliver designer drugs that reduce the amount of fat assimilated into the body
- better understanding of stresses and strains in large engineering components to ensure their integrity
- superconductors used to make extremely powerful electromagnets. Applications include better magnetic resonance imaging machines for medical diagnostics
- novel hydrogen-storage materials for clean energy of the future, molecules for drug-delivery systems and materials for fusion reactors
- the performance of substances that affect surface characteristics, for example, waterproofing, emulsifiers, and even the those on the surfaces of the lungs of premature infants
- developing and studying new pharmaceuticals, new chemicals, new advanced materials and better understanding of the phases of minerals processing.
Some benefits of nuclear technology
- Hospitals use radiation for diagnosis or treatment
- Nuclear science is central to new strategies for the increasing challenge of protecting and repairing our environment
- Short-lived radioactive isotopes are used to track pollutants. Nuclear techniques are used to read the signature of past climates in the geological record to get insights into the greenhouse future
- Everyday applications of nuclear science contribute to better health, electronics, food protection and crop research, industrial processes and manufacturing and environmental management
- Nuclear power stations provide much of the electricity in many countries.
More detail on the benefits of nuclear technology are reviewed throughout this section.