BELLWORK

How is nuclear energy typically portrayed in media such as television or movies?

Nuclear EnergyA Nonrenewable Alternative to Fossil Fuels

Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy - energy that is stored in the nucleus of an atom

This energy is released in a process called fission - the splitting of an atom

Utilizing Nuclear EnergyIn nuclear reactors, radioactive uranium atoms are bombarded with neutrons, causing fission.

The enormous amount of heat energy produced by this reaction is used to boil water, just like in a coal power plant.

How Nuclear Power Works

Nuclear Power Plants

Currently about 19% of US energy output

Advantages of Nuclear PowerRequires only a very small amount of uranium

-won’t run out soon-easier to transport

Almost no greenhouse gases are produced

Cheaper than renewable energy

Disadvantages of Nuclear Power

Dangerous radioactive waste is produced

This waste must be stored in special containers and buried in isolated areas

Nuclear meltdowns are extremely rare, but are catastrophic when they occur

Chernobyl - 1986

http://www.smh.com.au/world/chernobyl-ukraines-nuclear-time-bomb-still-ticking-20140516-zrfpn.html

The Future of Nuclear Energy

Despite any disadvantages, nuclear energy is the only type of energy that is readily available, cheap enough to use, and does not cause air pollution.

The biggest problem in the future is finding a place to store the waste for years and years.

Nuclear Energy Activity

Using the “Nuclear Energy Activity” page on my website, complete the assignment by the end of class.

You will turn in the assignment using the upload feature on the website.