Nuclear Essentials

Where does our electricity come from?

Where does our electricity come from?

Electricity is essential for modern life, yet almost one billion people live without access to it. Challenges such as climate change, pollution and environmental destruction require that we change the way we generate electricity.

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How does a nuclear reactor work?

How does a nuclear reactor work?

Nuclear reactors are, fundamentally, large kettles, which are used to heat water to produce enormous amounts of low-carbon electricity. They come in different sizes and shapes, and can be powered by a variety of different fuels. 

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Are there different types of reactor?

Are there different types of reactor?

Nuclear reactors come in many different shapes and sizes. Most are large enough to power major cities, and small reactors are being developed to complement them. Many use water to cool their cores, whilst others use gas or metals.

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How can nuclear combat climate change?

How can nuclear combat climate change?

To limit the impacts of climate change, the world must rapidly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Nuclear energy is low-carbon and can supply the world with clean, reliable, and affordable electricity. 

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What can nuclear technology do?

What can nuclear technology do?

Controlling the spread of disease, helping doctors diagnose and treat patients, powering space exploration; the uses of nuclear technology are varied – and truly life-changing.

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How is uranium made into nuclear fuel?

How is uranium made into nuclear fuel?

Uranium is the main fuel for nuclear reactors, and it can be found in many places around the world. In order to make the fuel, uranium is mined and goes through refining and enrichment before being loaded into a nuclear reactor.

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What is nuclear waste and what do we do with it?

What is nuclear waste and what do we do with it?

Nuclear reactors produce a small amount of waste that is managed responsibly. There are several management strategies in practise, such as direct disposal and reuse in reactors to generate more electricity.

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What are the effects of nuclear accidents?

What are the effects of nuclear accidents?

There have only been two major accidents at nuclear power plants, and their impacts have been far less severe than widely feared. Nuclear is the safest energy source we use anywhere in the world.

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Is radiation safe?

Is radiation safe?

Radiation occurs naturally and comes from sources all around us, including our own bodies. Radiation is often misunderstood, but helps save lives and cure disease

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