Advantages and Disadvantages of Nuclear Fission

Nuclear Fission is used as an alternative energy source to nonrenewable fossil fuels. Ever since the initial commercial plant for nuclear power, debate has raged with respect to the safety measures of this way of electricity production. Questions about safety have been increased within these discussions, ranging from the advantages of energy effectiveness to the disadvantages of the long term nuclear waste toxicity.

In the process of nuclear fission, energy is being generated from the fission of thorium, uranium or plutonium atoms. The majority of nuclear power plants utilize enriched uranium. Once the uranium atom takes in neutron, it splits or fissions, into 2 segments along with the other particles which reach peak speeds. Once they stop, heat will be converted into energy. After this, water will absorb the heat from the used fuel rods, generating steam that draws the turbines, which produce electricity. With the debates about the efficiency and danger brought by the method, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear fission first to know where you stand.

Advantages of Nuclear Fission

Free From The Heat-Generating CO2
With nuclear fission, people can use an energy source alternative that is free from CO2. It is certainly a set up technique to produce electrical energy without having to give off Carbon Dioxide and it is the greatest advantage it provides. Furthermore, this method will not generate some other forms of toxins into the atmosphere, such as smog.

Harmless Nuclear Fission Radiations To The Environment
The process performed by nuclear power plants produce radiations that do not lead to any hazardous effects to the nature. With this, people can assure that the environment is safe from nuclear fission.

Cost Effective Energy Source
The fuel that is utilized in the reaction of nuclear fission is extremely affordable. In addition to this, it is also applied in small amount, guaranteeing of its affordability. What’s more, nuclear fission does not eat up the source of fossil fuel.

Disadvantages of Nuclear Fission

High Initial Cost For The Nuclear Fission Plant
Even though the application of this energy source alternative is affordable, establishing a plant for it may require high initial cost. Along with this, the safety measures that are utilized inside the plants will be a bit expensive.

Hazardous Nuclear Fission Reaction Wastes
The process of nuclear fission produces some wastes from the reaction that are utilized in manufacturing of bombs.

Nuclear Breakdown May Be Harmful To The Environment And The Health Of The People
Whenever a nuclear breakdown takes place inside the plant, it may lead to some dangerous effects to the health of the people as well as to the environment.

As you may see, the use of nuclear fission comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Hence, it will greatly depend on you where you will stand. But, before you decide, make sure to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of Nuclear Fission first.