Nuclear energy tradeoffs flashcards

What is nuclear energy?

Nuclear energy is produced from nuclear reactions, primarily fission. It releases a large amount of energy using uranium or plutonium.

Advantage of nuclear energy?

Nuclear energy produces low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, helping combat climate change.

Disadvantage of nuclear energy?

Nuclear waste is highly radioactive and requires secure disposal for thousands of years.

True or false: Nuclear power plants emit CO2.

False, because they produce minimal direct carbon emissions.

Difference between fission and fusion.

Fission splits heavy atoms to release energy, while fusion combines light atoms. Fusion is much more powerful.

Fill in the blank: Nuclear energy is considered a ______ energy source.

low-carbon

What is a major risk of nuclear energy?

Nuclear meltdowns can occur if reactors are not properly managed, leading to catastrophic events.

How is nuclear waste stored?

It is stored in deep geological repositories or onsite in cooling pools until safe for disposal.

True or false: Nuclear energy is renewable.

False, because it relies on finite resources like uranium.

What is a common use of nuclear energy?

It is mainly used for electricity generation in power plants worldwide.

Which is NOT a benefit of nuclear energy?

High operational costs aren't a benefit; they can deter investment.

What does 'nuclear proliferation' refer to?

The spread of nuclear weapons and technology to countries not recognized as nuclear-armed.