12.1 The Use of Nuclear Energy

Countries That Use Nuclear Energy

• Nuclear energy brings many benefits to mankind when generated and controlled properly.
• More than 30 countries use nuclear energy as an energy source.
• Examples: United States of America, Russia, France, Slovakia and Japan.

Benefits of Nuclear Energy Sources

• Alternative energy source: Generates electricity to replace or reduce the use of petroleum and coal.
• Large and efficient energy output: Produces more energy and is more efficient than other energy sources.
• Ionising radiation: Used in medicine, agriculture and industry; improves human health and standard of living.
• Low greenhouse gas emission: Releases very little greenhouse gases compared with other energy sources.

Adverse Effects of Nuclear Energy Sources

• Radioactive waste can affect health and threaten the lives of all living things.
• The enormous amount of energy produced can cause severe harm to mankind if misused.