Advantages and Disadvantages of Nuclear Fission

Nuclear fission is a type of energy that can be produced as an alternative to the commonly used fossil fuels. It uses nuclear power plants to be harnessed and utilized by industrial facilities and homes. While it comes with good intentions, it has been under much criticism, considering the processes that it involves. To get a better understand of the consequences of this power source, it is best to look at the facts behind the arguments pushed by both supporters and opponents. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear fission:

List of Advantages of Nuclear Fission

1. Its technology is already known.
Like other nuclear technologies, this alternative energy has existed for quite some time now, which means that it is very well understood. It is regarded as a good option, as its process is nearing perfection, with advancements being researched at a much faster rate than other forms of alternative energy.

2. It has the capability to meet high needs.
The power that is produced through nuclear fission is immense, which means that it will be able to meet the requirements of large industrial cities, as well as suburban towns. Also, such energy is quick to produce, which means that it can provide large amounts of power when needed.

3. It only produces significantly less greenhouse gases.
Unlike fossil fuels, of which use has had a devastating impact on the environment, nuclear fission produces energy while releasing highly reduced amount of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which helps slow down the effects of pollution and global warming.

4. It requires low operating costs.
While it is known that the initial costs of building nuclear power plants are very high, the costs to operate them afterwards are just minimal. The costs incurred would only involve paying technicians to run the plants and sourcing the materials needed to create energy.

List of Disadvantages of Nuclear Fission

1. It poses danger for plant workers.
Naturally, nuclear fission emits radiation, which is deadly in large doses for humans and animals. This means that those who work at nuclear power plants are putting themselves at great risk of developing serious illnesses and suffering from poisoning due to radiation.

2. It is very volatile.
Volatility is truly a big risk is involved in nuclear fission, as the energy can easily be harnessed to create devastating weapons, such as nuclear bombs. Even the plants themselves pose a huge risk, considering that accidents can happen, injuring and even killing many people in and around the site.

3. It poses risks of contamination.
If appropriate measures are not taken to dispose nuclear waste, many people could suffer from contamination. Water contamination from these plants is already recorded in history, which caused widespread illnesses across populations.

4. It requires staggering initial costs.
As already implied, building a nuclear power plant requires a huge amount of investment, and this is due to the complex technologies and safety measures needed to run it properly.

By assessing the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear fission, you will be able to know whether it is a good energy source for your community or not.