Series and Parallel Circuits

Electric circuits are all about energy transfers: they allow the energy in the original source to be transferred via electricity into some other form. In the classic torch-bulb circuit, for example, chemical energy (in the cells) is converted into electrical energy, which is then converted into light (and heat, for old-fashioned bulbs). The amount of … Continue reading Series and Parallel Circuits

Irradiation and Contamination

There are two ways in which radioactive materials can affect the surrounding environment; irradiation and contamination. Understanding the differences between these two effects is important in terms of the precautions that must be taken when handling radioactive sources and also when storing radioactive waste. Irradiation refers to the transfer of energy (via ionising radiation) without … Continue reading Irradiation and Contamination