During the twentieth century scientists have discovered how to unleash the most powerful energy of all; nuclear energy. This energy is also known as atomic energy because it is obtained from atoms. An atomic bomb explosion shows just how powerful nuclear energy really is. The breaking apart or joining together of atomic nuclei is called a nuclear reaction. A tremendous amount of energy is released by a nuclear reaction. Nuclear energy is housed in a nuclear reactor.
Today, more than 15% of the world’s electricity comes from nuclear power, over 150 nuclear-powered naval vessels have been built, and a few radioisotope rockets have been produced. Many military and some civilian ships use nuclear marine propulsion. A few space vehicles have been launched using full-fledged nuclear reactors: the Soviet RORSAT series and the American SNAP-10A. As of 2007, there are 439 nuclear power reactors in operation in the world, operating in 31 countries. US, France, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, Britain are the leading users. There are advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power. Nuclear weapons are the most powerful and fearsome weapons ever introduced to man. Radiation that it releases can have long-term effects on humans and our environment. Radiation disrupts living cells, decreasing the resistance of disease and increasing risks of developing cancer. Abnormalities such as mongolism can be passed to offspring. The damage done to our environment is irreparable. What will be the effects of the disposal of nuclear wastes on our environment is not clearly known now. There have been many accidents like the accidents in nuclear power plant of Three Mile Island, Southeast of Harrisburg, Pennysania, USA and Kiev, Soviet Ukraine of former U.S.S.R.
However, inspite of all these harmful effect possibilities, the advantages of nuclear energy are it’s a great source of power used to produce electricity. Many people throughout the world use nuclear energy in their everyday lives. It is used to produce electricity for running our homes, schools and businesses. Also it can be used for lighting, heating and cooling. Nuclear energy is better than hydro energy as rivers are not blocked by dams resulting flood and loss of life and property. It also protects our plants and natural resources as wood and coal are burnt to produce thermal power.
In conclusion though there is the possibility for accidents or sabotage at nuclear power plants, they are not as common as other power plants. The development of nuclear energy, for both peaceful and wartime uses is much more than a scientific issue. The nuclear power plants or nuclear waste disposal sites are not located anywhere near human nuclear energy may be found, neither is there a special geographical place a nuclear habitat.There is no specific place where power plant must be located.