Radioisotope thermoelectric generator

A radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) is a simple electrical generator which obtains its power from radioactive decay. In such a device, the heat released by the decay of a suitable radioactive material is converted into electricity using an array of thermocouples. RTGs can be considered as a type of battery and have been used as power sources in satellites, space probes and unmanned remote facilities.

Related Topics:
Electrical generator - Radioactive decay - Heat - Radioactive - Electricity - Thermocouple - Battery

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