Nuclear Energy

A very rapid growth of energy consumption has occurred in the twentieth century. A major problem is that much of the 'world's energy supply is based on fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are limited and their supply is running out. From this it follows that the future of our energy supply must be based on sources other than fossil fuels like coal, oil and natural gas.

Hydroelectric, wind, tidal and solar power require much technological development. New and different sources of energy have to be found and brought into practical use. The problem consists in developing technology to extract energy from nature without causing air, water, thermal or radioactive pollution. The wise use of nuclear energy, based on an understanding of both dangers and benefits, will be required to meet this challenge to our existence.

In the near future about half of electrical supply is expected to come from nuclear sources. There are many factors that will determine the accuracy of this prediction. It is noted that the cost of construction of a nuclear plant is high but the fuel cost is relatively low.

Yet there is considerable confusion in the public mind when it comes to nuclear power plants. There are those who consider it to be a major solution to the world's energy needs. There are opponents with good reason to be critical. In either case we are faced with the rapidly increasing energy demands of the future.

A nuclear power plant is very much like a conventional steam power plant. The only difference is that the heat used to run the electric generator is Kot obtained by burning coal, gas, or oil but from controlled nuclear reactions.

A nuclear reactor is a device in which these reactions take place. There are various types of nuclear reactors. All of them operate more or less on the same principle. Yet we always face the fact that the use of nuclear energy requires safe transportation, processing, storage, and disposal of potentially dangerous materials. However the dream of limitless power will force mankind to find solutions to all these proems for the satisfaction of man's needs.

ВАРІАНТ IV