Chapter 19, Problem 57A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The problems associated with storage and disposal of nuclear waste are to be explained.

Concept introduction: The main component of nuclear waste are fission products which we get when a heavy nuclei is split into several smaller nuclei. Industries which generate radioactive waste include nuclear medicine, nuclear research, nuclear power and nuclear weapon.  Many people are concerned about the radioactive wastes from nuclear reactors. The potential threats of cancer and genetic mutations make these materials especially hazardous.

Answer to Problem 57A

Accidental release of radioactive materials and improper disposal of the radioactive products in spent fuel elements may pose the hazards.

Explanation of Solution

Radioactive wastes are itself consists of radioactive nuclide which can further decay by the emission of various ionizing particles. The damage these ionizing particles can cause depends in the energy of radiation and penetrating ability of the ionizing particles in animal body.

Radiation damage to organisms can be classified as somatic and genetic damage.

Somatic damage: This is damage to the organism itself, resulting in sickness or death. The effects may appear almost immediately if the recipient is exposed to massive dose of radiation. For small amount of doses, damage may come out years later, usually in the form of cancer.

Genetic damage: This is damage to the genetic machinery of reproductive cells, creating problems that often afflict the offspring of the organism.

Conclusion

Accidental release of radioactive materials and improper disposal of the radioactive products in spent fuel elements may pose the hazards.