The Nuclear Energy Debate

Nuclear Energy is produced from a controlled Nuclear reaction.

Here are a couple of Facts. Electric energy is released when the nuclei of an Atom are split (fission). Electrical reactors heat water that produces steam, which is then used to produce electricity.

It was first discovered in 1896 by Henri Becquerel.

Although it is an alternative energy source it is not renewable. The fuel used for nuclear power energy is Uranium. Even though it is found in rocks all over it has to be refined to create U-235.

Let's answer this by stating the Advantages vs the Disadvantages.
Advantages are: It is an extremely efficient means of creating electricity. These plants produce no Carbon Dioxide while operating. The plants are much safer today.
Disadvantages are: It is not a Renewable Energy Source. Refining the Uranium requires large amounts of energy. These plants require massive amounts of concrete and steel which require quite a bit of energy to produce.

Last but certainly not least is the fact that these plants produce radioactive waste. These toxins are said to be small amounts but still can not be ignored or taken lightly since they take thousands of years to degrade.

The result was the escape of poisonous gases such as Iodine which is very dangerous.

The investigation concluded that had the reactor been shut down and the leaks fixed the meltdown would not have happened.

An explosion in reactor-4 caused a meltdown. This sent a cloud of radioactive gas that spread across most of Europe.

The countries most affected were, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Yugoslavia.

The World Health Organization reported that deaths were less than expected. The report says 50 people died as a direct result of the meltdown.

The area was and still is mostly abandoned except for tours that are being given.

Have a Great Story About the Nuclear Energy Debate?

Do you have a great story about Nuclear Energy? Share it!