Nuclear Energy

• Source of nuclear energy

  Uranium Ore
• Production of Nuclear Energy

  Fission
• Fission is the main process used for generating nuclear energy, and involves splitting of atoms to release energy which can then be harnessed.
• Uranium -235 (235U) is used in the fission process as its atoms have relatively large nuclei that are easy to split.
• When 235U undergoes fission, the nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei plus a few neutrons, releasing heat energy and gamma radiation. The neutrons hit other uranium nuclei and cause them to split, causing a chain reaction. The chain reaction must be controlled in a nuclear reactor to stop it going too fast.
• In a nuclear power station, the energy released through fission is used to heat water and generate steam, which turns turbines and generates electrical power.
• Fission is the main process used for generating nuclear energy, and involves splitting of atoms to release energy which can then be harnessed. Uranium -235 (235U) is used in the fission process as its atoms have relatively large nuclei that are easy to split. When 235U undergoes fission, the nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei plus a few neutrons, releasing heat energy and gamma radiation. The neutrons hit other uranium nuclei and cause them to split, causing a chain reaction. The chain reaction must be controlled in a nuclear reactor to stop it going too fast. In a nuclear power station, the energy released through fission is used to heat water and generate steam, which turns turbines and generates electrical power.
• Advantages of Nuclear Energy

  • Uranium is non-renewable resource, but at current usage levels there is enough of it and other similar minerals to easily support generations for the next 250 years.
  • Nuclear power produces by far the most energy for the amount of fuel used. Known as the energy to fuel ratio.
  • Research shows risks of storing radioactive waste are small and can be reduced with new technology in reactors to reduce waste.
  • Generating electricity from nuclear reduces greenhouse gas emissions as there is less reliance on fossil fuels.
  • France produces 77% of its energy from nuclear, it has a low cost and is very reliable.
  • The safety records of most nuclear plants in high income countries are very high. This means the risk of incident is low.
  • Increases energy security and reduces reliance on volatile and unreliable foreign imports.
• Disadvantages of Nuclear Energy

  • Nuclear power stations have a lifespan of 30-40 years. Construction is slow and decommissioning takes around 80 years. This is extremely costly.
  • There is a question on where radioactive waste will be stored for long periods of time. Decay products are hazardous and can cause cancers.
  • There has been several high profile nuclear accidents which have affected communities e.g. Chernobyl.