A guide to Nuclear Power
By Maryam Khawar
What is Nuclear power?
Nuclear power is an increasingly popular energy source. It is generated through the use of Uranium, an abundant and inexpensive element. Uranium is found in nature and is obtained through mining.
How the energy is harnessed
There is a process when nuclear energy is generated. It is similar in ways to fossil-fuel burning, without the emissions. Uranium rods are used as fuel, and the energy is created through nuclear fission. The energy is released in the form of heat. Steam is created to generate a turbine, creating electricity. It is currently being used as an energy source.
Different types of the source
There are not currently different types of nuclear power, nuclear fission is only currently used. However, nuclear fusion is a future option for powering our world. There is no limit to the amount of fusion that can occur. Scientists are still researching this option, but it may power our future.
A common misconception about nuclear energy is that it is always dangerous. However, it is an environmentally friendly, non-polluting energy source, if handled correctly. Radioactive waste is deadly to humans, and can cause a massive destruction. But when it is handled correctly, it can be very beneficial to society.
Uranium is a very cheap source and the building of nuclear plants is expensive. But the production of these plants could cause significant economic growth. It would boost the economy and create many jobs country-wide.
How popular is nuclear energy in the u.s?
As this graph depicts, nuclear energy is 5% of U.S's energy consumption. This energy source as become increasingly popular in the U.S. The additional graph below shows the increase of nuclear energy in the U.S.
What other countries use nuclear energy?
Nuclear energy is a primary source in France, Belgium, and Slovakia. Only 30 countries use this source. France is the biggest contributor. while the U.S has the largest number of nuclear plants (100.)