Examine the science behind nuclear technology
Nuclear power generation is nothing new, but after several notable disasters the debate about cost versus benefit is ongoing. This series examines the science behind nuclear technology, including nuclear fission and fusion, reactors and safety.
Nuclear Power: Risks and Benefits
Nuclear energy generates massive amounts of electricity but also highly dangerous radioactive waste. This clip explains nuclear waste production, its treatment and containment, and how technology continues to improve safety around nuclear fission. It explores the reprocessing of waste and summarizes the costs and benefits of nuclear power generation.
‘Nuclear Power: Risks and Benefits’ Worksheets
Production Year: 2019
Audience: High School
Subject: Physics
See more content in Nuclear Energy
Nuclear Power: Risks and Benefits is one episode in our four-part series explaining complex concepts of nuclear power in a clear and simple way. See more videos in the series below:
Nuclear Fission
This clip details how fission occurs in radioactive nuclei to release energy. It also explores why the amount of energy generated when nuclei split is so great by using Einstein’s equation: E = mc2. Aimed at middle school and high school chemistry and physics students, this resource gives a clear understanding of nuclear fission.
Nuclear Fission Reactors
This clip details what happens inside a nuclear reactor. It discusses radioactive fuel and its processing, how nuclear reactions are contained, and how the heat produced generates power. It provides a clear explanation of nuclear power generation for middle school and high school chemistry and physics students.
Nuclear Fusion
The energy produced by nuclear fusion powers stars. This clip examines nuclear fusion, including what occurs at the subatomic level and why the energy released by fusion is vastly greater than in nuclear fission. Einstein’s equation is used to calculate specific energy quantities. High school chemistry and physics students will find this a valuable resource.
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