Нow did this profession come about

You probably know that all matter in the universe is made up of tiny particles - atoms, each of which has energy like a small battery. In the first half of the 20th century, physicists actively studied all the properties of the atom and the energetic qualities of atoms of various chemical elements. They came to the conclusion that if you change the properties of the nuclei (central parts of atoms) of some radioactive (that is, decayable) metals, then they begin to decay and at the same time release energy of enormous power.

In the late 1940s, American and Soviet nuclear physicists realized that atomic energy could be used not only for destructive but also for constructive purposes. Russian academician Igor Kurchatov created the world's first nuclear power plant (NPP) in 1954, and three years later called on all countries of the world to engage in peaceful nuclear energy. To date, nuclear power plants generate more than 10% of the world's electricity. There are more than 10 nuclear power plants in Russia at the moment, it is in second place in Europe, and most of them are being built in the Middle East and Asia, which significantly expands the possibilities and geography of work for this specialty.

Let's take a closer look at what a nuclear engineer can do.

What does a nuclear engineer do?

Ensures the operation of the NPP

Working at a nuclear power plant, an atomic engineer makes sure that such complex and extremely dangerous devices as a nuclear reactor (the place where the radioactive decay of atomic nuclei occurs) function properly and maintain stability. This is necessary in order for the nuclear power plant to operate without breakdowns - after all, it provides millions of people with electricity. The second aspect is safety; this requires constant monitoring of all systems of the nuclear power plant. And, of course, the repair of worn-out equipment.

Designs equipment for nuclear power plants

For the correct and efficient operation of nuclear power plants, it is necessary to develop complex mechanisms and systems - both for the plant itself and for its maintenance, transport and communications. The nuclear engineer is working on continuous improvement of equipment, while not forgetting the requirements of increased safety for any unit that is developed for a nuclear power plant. Also, such a specialist is engaged in testing and launching such equipment.

Designs nuclear installations for military and space technology

Do you know that nuclear reactors are installed not only at nuclear power plants? Nuclear power is used by such powerful and unique marine vessels as a nuclear submarine or a nuclear icebreaker. Atomic energy allows them to perform the most complex and varied tasks - exploring the oceans, patrolling, experimenting and observing. Reactors are also being developed for spacecraft, although none of them have yet been used in real flight conditions. Maybe you will be the one who will launch a new type of atomic-powered ship to the stars?

Radiation medicine

Radiation, or nuclear medicine, uses microscopic doses of radiation to treat cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This branch of medicine is developing rapidly, so the nuclear engineer will be very useful for radiologists and medical physicists: for the development and maintenance of equipment necessary for the treatment of patients.