Chapter 14: Problem 17

The letters following each Review Question refer to the corresponding Learning Objective from the Chapter Opener. What are some of the drawbacks of nuclear energy? (F)

Short Answer

Expert verified

Some of the main drawbacks of nuclear energy include the production of radioactive waste, which is hazardous to the environment and human health; the risk of catastrophic accidents, such as reactor meltdowns and explosions; the reliance on finite resources like uranium and plutonium; high costs associated with the construction and maintenance of nuclear power plants; and proliferation concerns, as nuclear reactors produce plutonium, which can be used to make nuclear weapons.

Step by step solution

1. Radioactive Waste

One significant drawback of nuclear energy is the radioactive waste produced during nuclear reactions. These wastes are hazardous to the environment and human health, and they remain radioactive for thousands of years. Proper disposal and containment of radioactive waste are essential but challenging tasks.

2. Risk of Accidents

Nuclear energy also has the potential for catastrophic accidents, such as reactor meltdowns and explosions. While accidents are rare, the consequences can be devastating for the environment and local populations. Examples include the 1986 Chernobyl disaster in Ukraine and the 2011 Fukushima accident in Japan.

3. Limited Resources

Nuclear energy relies on finite resources like uranium and plutonium for fuel. As these resources become depleted over time, the availability and cost of nuclear energy may be affected. In addition, the extraction and processing of uranium can have negative environmental impacts.

4. High Costs

The construction and maintenance of nuclear power plants can be very expensive. High upfront costs, regulatory challenges, and long construction times can make the development of nuclear facilities an undesirable option for some countries or utilities.

5. Proliferation Concerns

Another drawback of nuclear energy is the risk of nuclear weapons proliferation. Nuclear reactors produce plutonium, which can be used to make nuclear bombs. The spread of nuclear technology and know-how can increase the risk of nuclear weapons falling into the wrong hands. In conclusion, there are several drawbacks associated with nuclear energy, including radioactive waste, the risk of accidents, limited resources, high costs, and proliferation concerns. While nuclear power has the potential to provide a significant source of low-carbon energy, it is essential to consider and address these issues when planning for its use.

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The letters following each Review Question refer to the corresponding Learning Objective from the Chapter Opener. What are some of the drawbacks of nuclear energy? (F)

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Radioactive Waste

2. Risk of Accidents

3. Limited Resources

4. High Costs

5. Proliferation Concerns

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