![]() ![]() The number of protons defines what chemical element that atom belongs to nuclei with the same number of protons but varying numbers of neutrons are called isotopes of that element. Similarly, each nuclear submarine draws power from its own miniature onboard nuclear reactor.Īt the heart of every atom is an atomic nucleus, made of protons and neutrons. Nuclear reactors inside power stations have been powering homes and industry across the world for 70 years. In the early days of atomic research, scientists rapidly realised the huge amounts of energy released by “splitting the atom” can be harnessed to generate electricity. ![]() The key difference lies in the way they are powered. On the surface, they look like any other submarine. So what is “nuclear” about a nuclear submarine? The first thing to say is that a nuclear-powered submarine is not a nuclear weapon. Read more: Australia to build nuclear submarines in a new partnership with the US and UK Since then, only six nations have owned and operated nuclear submarines: China, France, India, Russia, the UK and the US.Ĭonsidering Australia has just torn up a A$90 billion contract to construct a new arsenal of conventional submarines, yesterday’s announcement will probably come as a surprise to many. Research into nuclear-based propulsion of marine vessels began in the 1940s with the dawn of the “nuclear age”. The Australian government has just declared an historic defence agreement with the United States and United Kingdom that will see a new fleet of nuclear-powered submarines patrol our shores and surrounding waters. AJ Mitchell, Australian National University
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