Nuclear power is an alternative way of using fossil fuels
and it is something that many countries are researching. You will find that
nuclear power plants are spread through out most major countries and that the
governments are actually trying to stop the spreading of these plants, simply
because of the danger that bring in the cases of nuclear accidents. A nuclear
accident could end up destroying a large area of the country and eventually the
world. However, you will find that the nuclear power is mostly safe for the
general public, including the public that fears nuclear plants. You will want
to learn the process of nuclear power so that you can raise awareness about all
of the benefits of the power, but become known and familiar with the
disadvantages of nuclear power. With this knowledge the community can take a
stand against nuclear power.
Uranium is the start of nuclear power. Over 99% of the
uranium that is found in the earth cannot be used to create nuclear power.
However, with that 99% is some that could be used for your advantage. Nuclear
power works in much of the same way that burning fossil fuels work. Heat is
created in a process known as fission, and this heat is used to create steam.
You might find that the steam is expanded and that is what turns the turbines,
but then that will keep the generator going. Then the generator will produce
electricity that will come in your homes across the country. The only
difference in the process is the initial source of heat.
When uranium rods are placed into a reactor you will get
fission. Neutrons are sent to smash into the uranium, and the nucleus of the
uranium atoms split in half. This chemical reaction causes heat, which is
picked up by carbon dioxide that has been pumped into the reactor. This process
is safer than most people think. When the reactor gets too hot or over heated,
you will find that a fire is caused and then uranium is let into the
environment. However, cooling rods, made of boron, can be used to quickly stop the
nuclear reaction process. If the reactor gets too hot, boron rods are lowered
into it with a special crane, and the boron absorbs the neutrons. In the case
of human error, a backup system is set into place in which boron rods are
automatically lowered into the reactor. Also, you should also find that the
reactor can become to be flooded with nitrogen and water is the reactor is
still too hot. This permanently damages the reactor, so it is a last resort,
but it is an automated system that prevents disaster.
You should learn both
the advantages and the disadvantages for nuclear power before you make a
judgment on rather it is good for you or not. You will find that there is a lot
of use, but there are lots of risks too. This form of energy needs to be pursued
with caution.
