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5 Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is the energy released from atomic reactions, primarily through fission and fusion. Nuclear power plants operate by splitting heavy atoms to produce heat, which generates electricity via steam-driven turbines. While nuclear energy offers low greenhouse gas emissions and high energy output, it also poses challenges such as radioactive waste, accident risks, high costs, and potential for nuclear proliferation.

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2 views1 page

5 Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is the energy released from atomic reactions, primarily through fission and fusion. Nuclear power plants operate by splitting heavy atoms to produce heat, which generates electricity via steam-driven turbines. While nuclear energy offers low greenhouse gas emissions and high energy output, it also poses challenges such as radioactive waste, accident risks, high costs, and potential for nuclear proliferation.

Uploaded by

Ahsan
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Nuclear Energy – Key Notes

1. Definition

• Nuclear energy is the energy released from atomic reactions, mainly through nuclear
fission (splitting of atoms) or nuclear fusion (combining atoms).

2. Types of Nuclear Reactions

• Nuclear Fission – Splitting of heavy atoms (e.g., uranium-235, plutonium-239) to release


energy.
• Nuclear Fusion – Combining light atoms (e.g., hydrogen isotopes) to form a heavier
atom, releasing massive energy (e.g., the Sun's process).

3. How Nuclear Power Plants Work

1. Fission Reaction – Uranium or plutonium atoms split, releasing heat.


2. Heat Production – This heat turns water into steam.
3. Turbine Rotation – Steam drives turbines, generating electricity.
4. Cooling Process – Steam is cooled and condensed back into water.

4. Advantages of Nuclear Energy

• Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions – Does not produce CO₂ like fossil fuels.
• High Energy Output – A small amount of uranium produces a large amount of energy.
• Reliable Power Supply – Unlike solar or wind, it provides constant energy.
• Efficient Fuel Use – Less fuel is needed compared to coal or gas.

5. Disadvantages of Nuclear Energy

• Radioactive Waste – Spent fuel remains hazardous for thousands of years.


• Risk of Accidents – Disasters like Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) caused
radiation leaks.
• High Costs – Building nuclear power plants is expensive.
• Nuclear Proliferation – Risk of nuclear technology being used for weapons.

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