Physics Section Activities 

     Physics is the science of matter and energy and their interactions. The laws of physics are the foundation of all modern technology, such airplanes, automobiles, computers, lasers, space travel, telephones and television. Nuclear physics explores the structure and properties of atoms. Nuclear science and the technologies that are in use today, such as medical imaging and nuclear power, are the result of early research in physics. In the future, new benefits will come from technological innovations now possible thanks in large part to ongoing research work in and expanding knowledge of nuclear physics.

     The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) works for the safe, secure and peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology. Its key roles contribute to international peace and security, and to social, economic and environmental development. promoting safeguards and verification, safety and security, and science and technology are the three main pillars of the IAEA. As part of science and technology pillar, the physics programme falls within the major programme on nuclear power, fuel cycle and nuclear science. Through this programme, the Physics Section supports Member States regarding utilization of particle accelerators and research reactors, applications of instrumentation, and controlled nuclear fusion research. The Physics Section assists Technical Cooperation projects in these areas.

     Each area covered by the Physics Section Activities are described in the following sections:

• Particle Accelerators

• Research Reactors

• Instrumentation

• Nuclear Fusion

• The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor - ITER