Introduction and Review of Nuclear Physics

This lecture provides an introduction to the physics of nuclear reactors, covering the history, objectives, and main goals of the course. It includes a review of nuclear physics, discussing the structure of the atom, the discovery of neutrons, fission, fusion, and the concept of radioactivity. The lecture also explores the analogy between gas molecules and neutrons, reactor physics, neutronics equations, and the different types of nuclear reactions. Additionally, it delves into the significance of nuclear power, the operation of nuclear reactors worldwide, and the principles of energy production and nuclear propulsion.