Solar energy like most renewable energy sources is derived from nuclear energy. Both solar and nuclear energy will play key roles in the worlds future energy needs. Therefore it is important that Energy Scientists and Engineers have a general understanding of these energy sources and the various technologies for converting these energies to dispatchable heat and work.

In this module, we will explore two key sources of energy that have the potential to shape our sustainable future: solar power and nuclear power. Solar power, harnessed from the abundant and renewable energy of the sun, and nuclear power are both derived from the nuclear reactions and both offer unique solutions to address our growing energy needs while mitigating impact on the environment. In the solar energy part of the module, we will cover the basic principles of energy conversion in photovoltaic systems and other solar systems. We will explore how solar electricity generation works and the principles of photovoltaic electric systems. Additionally, we will investigate the role of batteries and photovoltaic controls in optimizing solar power systems for efficient operation. Furthermore, we will learn about the natural solar cycles and the fundamentals of the conversion of nuclear fusion energy to solar energy, as well as the effects it undergoes during transmission through space and our atmosphere. In the second part of the module, we will primarily focus on nuclear fission and its use in nuclear reactors, while also touching upon potential for utilization of nuclear fusion. We will begin by covering the basic concepts of nuclear science, understanding the physics of nuclear binding, stability, decay, and the interactions of radiation with matter, including radioactive-series decay, charged particle interactions, neutron interactions, and gamma interactions. Additionally, we will study the detection of nuclear radiation and the processes involved in nuclear decays and reactions. Building on this foundation, we will explore the principles of nuclear reactors, emphasizing their applications in power generation. We will study the thermodynamics of nuclear power plants, heat generation and its removal from reactors, and the resulting design considerations, safety aspects, and engineering implications in harnessing nuclear energy for power production. Finally, we will explore various other important aspects of nuclear and solar energy. We will compare nuclear power with renewable and non-renewable energy sources, analyse the life cycle of nuclear fuel, examine the challenges of waste reprocessing and storage, and address concerns related to proliferation and learn from historical nuclear accidents. Furthermore, we will consider the economics of nuclear and solar power plants/systems, evaluate the safety measures and resource restrictions that impact these systems and consider international best practise for their deployment. Throughout this module, we will study the principles, technologies, and applications of both solar and nuclear power. Two virtually boundless energy sources that present significant challenges and potentials.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Define the key concepts in solar physics, nuclear physics and nuclear energy. Apply appropriate models and approximations to derive relationships between physical variables which may be measured experimentally. Apply the principles of solid-state and thermal physics to predicting, describing and explaining the operation of solar panels. Apply the principles of modern physics and engineering to predicting, describing and explaining the operation and characteristics of nuclear reactors. Solve problems, from information given, requiring the calculation of the values of physical variables in solar and nuclear physics.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Value the significance of nuclear and solar energy in establishing low carbon and secure electricity driven economies. Demonstrate a constructive and critical attitude towards the effective implementation of solar and nuclear energy systems, recognizing the importance of safety, resource limitations and the conservation of climate and the environment.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Conduct fundamental experiments related to nuclear radiation and solar energy

"Students will learn through a series of lectures, labs and tutorials. Students curiosity will be encouraged through learning about the key aspects of the energy and mass of the sun and the resulting radiation and energy fluxes. Key aspects on fission and fusion nuclear reactions and the main reactions powering the sun and future power plants. Key aspects of the transmission of solar energy to earth and the conversion of solar energy to heat and electricity including an overview of the key future techniques for the conversion of solar and nuclear energy to electricity. Open-minded and articulate students will be encouraged to to discuss and provide educated opinion on solar and nuclear energy and to elucidate and question the advantages and disadvantages of the various solar and nuclear technologies in the context of Earth, the environment and resources. Students will get a very clear understanding of the limitations of resources from this module and encouraging a more inclusive and balanced approach will allow them to place their future projects in a much wider and responsible context.