Nuclear Explained

What happens when seeds are exposed to microgravity, extreme low temperatures and cosmic radiation? The IAEA and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) launched seeds into space to find out. The experiment aims to enhance the development of crops that can withstand the effects of climate change and to increase food security on Earth.

Water is critical for human development and environmental and economic sustainability. Isotopic techniques are used to help assess the quantity, quality and sustainability of this precious resource. Isotope hydrology is a nuclear technique that uncovers how water moves through the land, ocean and atmosphere. This technique provides data to facilitate informed decision making to address water management challenges.

What does nuclear and radiation have to do in the fight against cancer? In this episode, experts explain the key role of radiation-based technologies in comprehensive cancer control. From diagnosing cancer patients with medical imaging to using life-saving radiation-based treatments, such as radiotherapy and image-guided procedures, nuclear medicine and radiation technologies improve many lives. Access to these tools is of vital importance, and the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative helps to establish and improve access to cancer care in countries that need it most. Guests:

Thirty-two countries operate nuclear power plants, which provide some 10 per cent of the world’s electricity and account for 25 per cent of all low-carbon electricity. How many more countries are interested in or embarking on nuclear power? And how does a country develop a nuclear power programme? In this episode, experts from the IAEA and nuclear newcomers – countries who are interested in or already in the process of introducing nuclear power – explain why countries are turning to nuclear power and discuss the process and challenges in developing a nuclear power programme.

For decades, fusion energy has been a distant dream offering the prospect of almost limitless clean energy. But now with burgeoning private sector involvement and major scientific breakthroughs occuring regularly, it seems like fusion's realization is getting closer than ever. In this episode, experts explain the science behind fusion and the challenges that must be overcome before this source of energy could be powering our homes. Guests: