Nuclear Energy

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In 1934, Enrico Fermi experimented with nuclear fission, a nuclear reaction which occurs when the atomic nucleus is split into smaller components. It resulted in the creation of the first nuclear reactor. In 1951, a nuclear reactor was used to generate electricity in an experimental station in Idaho, United States. All these events contributed to the development of nuclear energy as a power source.

What is nuclear energy?

In physics, nuclear energy refers to the energy created when the nucleus of an atom is split into smaller components. This often creates free neutrons, smaller nuclei, and photons. The process of nuclear fission is the foundation of nuclear power, which derives usable energy, such as electricity, from atomic nuclei. Nuclear power plants enable the transformation of energy from the nuclei into electric power in the same way that thermal power plants burn fossil fuels to generate electricity.

What are the risks associated with harnessing nuclear energy?

Nuclear power plants produce a lot of solid waste and low-level as well as high-level radioactive waste which pose health and environmental hazards. These wastes include fuel spent during the process, and its radioactive qualities do not diminish in a short period of time.

What are the benefits?

Despite all the risks associated with nuclear power, its advocates claim that it is a sustainable source. They also say that nuclear energy has less carbon emissions. If the waste storage issue can be addressed over time, countries with nuclear power plants may be independent from oil-rich countries.