Einstein’s Equation in Nuclear and Solar Energy

Abstract

Starting from the equation of Einstein (E = m·c 2 ), the chapter proposes a simple and fundamental presentation of the fission and fusion principles, together with some of their applications: nuclear reactors and nuclear propulsion vessels and submarines. Fission and fusion are chosen between the multiple forms of energy, as being the most important forms of nuclear energy, directly related with the equation of Einstein. Some characteristics of solar energy, produced from the fusion process inside the Sun, are deducted from the same equation of Einstein: thermal power of solar radiation; specific power of solar radiation; surface temperature of the Sun; solar constant on different planets, etc. The yearly variation of the solar radiation on each planet of the solar system is also presented.

An Overview of the ITER Project

“…The basic difference is that the "fission energy" is released when a heavy nucleus is split by neutrons, which is the source for present atomic power stations and atomic bombs. The "fusion energy" is produced by the fusion of two hydrogen atoms is the energy of all the stars in the universe (including the sun) to release light, heat and hydrogen bombs [1,2].…”