Quote:
Originally Posted by Blah
Its not the same as saying:
"Radioactive Uranium, the size of your fist can power a nuclear submarine for 25 years, never needing to refuel."
Looks like he got the 25 year number from wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_submarine.
The citation is gives ( http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/astute/) says nothing about 25 years life cycle. So it would seem the citation is wrong?
Now looking for the "Radioactive Uranium, the size of your fist" reference.
Edit: just to add to that about nuclear submarines and its comparison to civilian nuclear power plant. The nuclear submarines use uraniums that has been enriched to weapon's grade level with ~90%, as opposed to commercial power plants which are usually ~5% enriched uranium. To top it off nuclear reactor design in submarines are top secret stuff and small scale (300-400MW) and works nothing like civilian power plants. So I would say the comparison is not an appropriate.
Also looking for reference on "2/3 KG of fusion-able material will run a 1000 MW power plant for more than a year".
Don't get me wrong, I am interested in learning. Preferably with good source when seeing crazy numbers.
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I was referring to the "Fist size and 25 years" from a documentary on nuclear submarines I watched on National Geographic. The program is called "Big Bigger Biggest" and that particular episode dealt with evolution of submarines. You will probably find it on youtube.
You are correct that it is weapons grade Uranium (extremely pure)....