Elements of Lattice Physics

This lecture delves into the intricate process of determining the flux in a nuclear reactor, focusing on the parameters involved in lattice physics. The instructor explains the importance of balancing absorption, production, and losses to achieve a stable state. The lecture covers the challenges of determining parameters, such as the gradient of the flux, and the approximations made to simplify computations. It explores the concept of microscopic cross-sections and the impact of space and energy on neutron behavior. The discussion extends to the complexities of modeling reactor assemblies, considering factors like dilution, resonance self-shielding, and heterogeneous systems. The lecture emphasizes the need for accurate spectral calculations and the iterative approach to refining flux approximations.