How Is Nuclear Energy Created?

Nuclear energy is contained in the nucleus of an atom.

Nuclear energy is a powerful and cost-effective source of energy. According to the Clean and Safe Energy Coalition, "one uranium fuel pellet--the size of the tip of your little finger--is equivalent to 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas, 1,780 pounds of coal or 149 gallons of oil."

Releasing Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is contained within the nucleus of an atom and is released when the bonds that hold the atom together are altered. An atom can change in one of two ways: It can either split (fission) or be combined with another atom (fusion).

Fission

Fission, which has been used to generate electricity since 1951, is the method that scientists still use today. Fission is accomplished by splitting one atom into two smaller atoms.

Fusion

The sun generates power using fusion. In fusion, two atoms are forced to collide and fuse together. There are discussions currently underway about a plan to build a fusion plant in the United Kingdom by 2030.

Benefits

Advocates of nuclear energy point out that nuclear energy does not produce greenhouse gases, which means it does not contribute to climate change.

Dangers

Although there are many benefits to using nuclear power, there is a danger associated with using such a powerful energy source. In 1986 the nuclear power plant at Chernobyl, Ukraine, exploded, releasing radiation into the surrounding areas. Although only two employees died in the initial blast, thousands of exposed individuals eventually developed cancer and a great deal of damage was done to wildlife and the environment.

References

• Clean and Safe Energy Coalition: Top 10 Facts About Nuclear Energy
• U.S. Department of Energy: The History of Nuclear Energy
• The Times: UK plans first nuclear fusion power plant
• U.S. Department of Energy: Nuclear Energy, An Overview
• International Atomic Energy Agency: Frequently Asked Chernobyl Questions