Nuclear Science and Technology, Volume 10: Variational Methods in Nuclear Reactor Physics presents the mathematical methods of a variational origin that are useful in obtaining approximate solutions to science and engineering problems.

This book is composed of five chapters and begins with a discussion on the variation principles for physical systems described by both inhomogeneous and homogeneous equations to develop a generalized perturbation theory. Chapter 2 deals with the applications of variational estimates and generalized perturbation theory to neutron transport problems. Chapter 3 covers the variation principles of the Lagrangian form that are constructed for a general, linear- time-dependent process and for the specific case of the P1 neutron kinetics equations. Chapter 4 presents the general procedure for the variational derivation of synthesis approximations and their applications to problems in reactor physics. This chapter also examines the relationship of the spatial synthesis and finite-element method and a hybrid method that combines features of both methods. Chapter 5 describes the relationship of variation theory with the Hamilton-Jacobi theory and with the optimization theories of the maximum principle and dynamic programming.
Nuclear physicists and researchers will find this text invaluable.

• Front Cover 2
• Variational Methods in Nuclear Reactor Physics 5
• Copyright Page 6
• Table of Contents 7
• Preface 13
• Introduction 13
• Chapter 1. Variational Estimates and Perturbation Theory 17
  • 1.1. Source Problems 18
  • 1.2. Eigenvalue Problems 26
  • 1.3. Generalized Perturbation Theory 30
  • 1.4. Higher-Order Variational Principles 37
  • References 42
• Chapter 2. Applications of Variational Estimates and Generalized Perturbation Theory 44
  • 2.1. Self-Shielding Factor for an Isolated Slab in a Diffusing Medium 44
  • 2.2. Resonance Absorption of Neutrons 47