EEME exam topics

  • Section A (Heat transfer and thermodynamics)
    1. Laws of thermodynamics
    2. Heat transfer mechanisms (including heat transfer coefficient, emissivity, conduction, convection types, Reynolds and Grasshoff numbers, Stefan-Boltzmann law and Planck’s law, heat equation).
    3. Rankine Cycle (including temperature-entropy plot for a theoretical and real case, methods of increasing its thermal efficiency, enthalpy definition, isentropic efficiency of turbine and pump definitions).
    4. Brayton Cycle (including temperature-entropy plot for a theoretical and real case, methods of increasing its thermal efficiency, thermal efficiency in terms of compressor pressure ratio and corresponding plot).
    5. Second law of thermodynamics, Carnot engine (including its pressure-volume and temperature-entropy plots), concept of thermal efficiency. Useful work and lost work.
  • Section B (Nuclear Engineering)
    1. The main components of pressurized water reactor (PWR) and their functions. Temperature and pressure conditions at the primary loop.
    2. Differences between pressurized water reactor (PWR) and boiling water reactor (BWR)
    3. Process of neutron moderation. What is it, why is it important? Most commonly used moderators. Mechanism of slowing down (moderation) of neutrons.
    4. The definition of the neutron multiplication factor and its significance for nuclear reactor operation.
    5. Four factor formula for the neutron multiplication factor
    6. Prompt and delayed neutrons.
    7. How do we control power of the nuclear reactor?
    8. Reactivity feedback mechanisms in nuclear reactors.
    9. Used fuel and radioactive waste management.
  • Section C (Energy Systems and Environment)
    1. Comparison of nuclear power with other energy sources – coal power plants, gas power plants and renewables from the perspective of greenhouse gas emissions (kilograms of CO2 per MWh of electric energy produced, other greenhouse gas emissions) and grid stability (start-up time, load-following capabilities, daily electricity demand profile).
    2. Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of decarbonizing electricity with nuclear and renewable energy sources from the standpoint of resources and land requirements and complexity of construction (compare the requirements of concrete mass, copper mass, land surface per GWe of installed power, energy return on investment, construction times, lifetimes).
    3. The most effective usage of nuclear reactors for decarbonization efforts besides electric energy production.
    4. Environmental (other than greenhouse gas emissions) and health impacts of various energy sources: nuclear power, coal, gas, renewables (impact of mines on local environments, toxic emissions, fatalities in normal operation and accidents, toxic wastes).
    5. Renewable and sustainable energy sources.