Lesson 62: Nuclear Energy in Perspective
In this lesson, we will talk about nuclear power as an energy source, and
also look at the widespread concerns about using nuclear power.
Nuclear power is an alternative energy source with fewer emissions than fossil
fuels.
Nuclear power production began in earnest after World War II. By 1973,
nuclear power supplied 9% of all electricity.
However,
nuclear power plants were dismantled and their use diminished due to fears of
fallout. Consumers were worried about what would happen if an accident
occurred. Both citizens and state government deemed that it would be impossible
to evacuate areas if there were an accident.
In Japan, in
March 2011, a massive earthquake struck power stations such as the Fukushima
Daiichi power station with six nuclear reactors. Japan has 55 nuclear reactors.
Seawater cut off power and demolished backup generators. The government issued
a mandatory evacuation within a 12-mile radius, moving 75,000 people. The
accident caused the release of radioactive material into the air, which is
harmful for all life. The area is expected to be a dead zone for many years to
come.