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Pseudo Epsilon
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is it possible to make a nuclear "battery" which works off nuclear not electrochemical reactions using berylium/graphite shielding?
Pseudo Epsilon said:i know that but what I am asking is:theoreticly can you make a nuclear reactor 50cm by 50cm asuming the u-235 was dense enough to reach critical mass?
mfb said:Well, a sphere of plutonium is not a reactor. You need moderation, control mechanisms, cooling cycles, power generation and so on.
Pseudo Epsilon said:assuming break even fusion was achieved how big do you think the smallest fusion reactor could be?
Pseudo Epsilon said:out of the hypothetical methods of fusion (inertial, z-pinch, laser ect..) what would be the smallest?
Yes, nuclear batteries, also known as radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), have been used as a power source for various devices such as pacemakers, space probes, and remote weather stations.
Nuclear batteries work by converting the heat produced from the decay of a radioactive material, such as plutonium-238, into electricity through thermoelectric materials. These materials use the temperature difference between the hot and cold sides of the battery to generate a voltage.
Yes, nuclear batteries are considered safe to use as they are designed to contain and shield the radioactive material inside. Additionally, the amount of radiation emitted from a nuclear battery is very low and poses little risk to human health.
No, nuclear batteries do not have the potential to explode like nuclear reactors. The amount of radioactive material used in nuclear batteries is much smaller and is not enough to sustain a chain reaction. Additionally, nuclear batteries have multiple layers of protection to prevent any accidents.
One limitation of nuclear batteries is their limited power output. They produce a small amount of electricity compared to other power sources, making them suitable for low-power devices. Additionally, nuclear batteries have a limited lifespan as the radioactive material decays over time and loses its potency.