Nuclear Energy
Nuclear energy is released when a large atom is split into two smaller atoms (fission) or when two small atoms are merged into one larger atom (fusion).
During this process mass is lost and converted to energy according to Einstein's famous equation.
In current practice the energy generated by the fission of a large molecule (usually uranium-235 or plutonium-239) is used to heat water and generate steam to power conventional turbines and generate electricity.
Research into production of energy usin fusiong has been going on since the 1950s with no results.
The production of electricity using nuclear energy is emission free if you do not include emissions generated during mining operations.
The nuclear power industry has an excellent safety record when using properly designed and engineered reactors.
Nuclear power has the disadvantage that it is much more expensive than other sources.
The biggest hurdle facing adoption of nuclear power is the disposal of radioactive waste.
This waste remains dangerous indefinitely when compared to the human lifespan and no concensus has been reached on how to deal with it.
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