NUCLEAR ENERGY’S ROLE
The role of nuclear energy in the study, exploration, and utilization of the world ocean is best defined by citing the specific oceanographic interests of the U. S. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC): Development of better instruments and devices for work and study in the ocean, development of ever-stronger national sea power, conversion of seawater to fresh water, possible modification of ocean boundaries, purely scientific studies to advance knowledge, and, indirectly at least, improving the state of oceanographic engineering. Among the technological products of the nuclear age are radionuclides, neutron sources and other radiation sources, radioisotope heat and electric generators, and nuclear reactors. All these are applied to ocean-related endeavors.
Several divisions of the AEC have important oceanic interests. These range from pure oceanographic research to development of specific instruments, nuclear reactors, radioisotopic power sources, and other devices for use in or under the ocean. The AEC also conducts extensive marine environmental studies to monitor the effects or ensure the safety of specific projects involving nuclear energy. A statistical summary of specific AEC programs in oceanography is shown in Table I on [page 14].