Chapter 12_ Nuclear Energy

What is nuclear fission?

The splitting of uranium (U-235) nuclei to release energy.

How does a nuclear power plant generate electricity?

Fission in the reactor core generates heat, which turns water into steam that spins a turbine, driving a generator.

What role do control rods play in a nuclear reactor?

They absorb excess neutrons to prevent uncontrolled reactions.

What is the difference between low-level and high-level radioactive waste?

LLRW is low radiation and stored in landfills, while HLRW, like spent fuel rods, remains radioactive for thousands of years.

What are the challenges of nuclear waste disposal?

There is no permanent storage site in the U.S., and the Yucca Mountain project has been halted.

What are the advantages of nuclear energy?

No CO₂ emissions, high energy output, and a reliable power source.

What are the disadvantages of nuclear energy?

High cost, radioactive waste, and the risks of meltdowns (e.g., Chernobyl, Fukushima).

What is renewable energy?

Energy from sources that are naturally replenished such as solar, wind, hydro, biomass, geothermal, and tidal.

What are the main types of renewable energy?

Direct Solar, Wind, Hydropower, Biomass, Geothermal, and Tidal/Ocean.

What does it mean that renewable energy is accessible across Earth's surface?

It indicates that renewable energy sources are available in a wider area rather than being concentrated in specific regions.