Ideas for Physics Research Proposal?

[IceSparrow]

It's not really a "problem", but I want to do research in physics over the summer for my school, and I am having some trouble thinking of good research proposal ideas. In other words, I don't know what I should do!

I am interested in Nuclear physics, as well as nuclear engineering and Energy/Fuel efficiency and usage... and I would write something about (a) nuclear waste problems, but that's too chemistry for a physics research proposal, or (b) something about the process that goes on in nuclear reactors, but that is impossible given that my equipment will be only what the school provides +/- access to university labs.

So, it has to be a fairly short proposal (no need to learn everything about the subject), but is also has to be specific in the sense that I have to know what I want to do and how to achieve it...

Are there any ideas of things/problems I can research?

 

[jbsteele]

One idea might be to research methods of using physics to increase the efficiency of nuclear power plants. This could include exploring the mechanisms of how radiation is released from a reactor, as well as looking into ways to reduce the amount of energy lost in the process of generating electrical power. Additionally, you could explore the potential for using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to supplement the energy produced by nuclear power plants. Another idea could be to look into the effects of radiation on living organisms. This could involve researching the health effects of radiation exposure, both short and long-term, as well as investigating the potential for nuclear radiation to cause genetic mutations in living organisms. This could also include exploring ways to reduce the risk of radiation exposure, such as through better shielding or containment systems. Finally, you could explore methods for safely managing nuclear waste. This could involve researching ways to reduce the amount of radioactivity in nuclear waste, as well as examining potential methods for storing and disposing of nuclear waste in a safe and secure manner.