Chapter 20, Problem 58E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power plants over other sources of electrical energy are to be stated. Whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or not is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

The elements whose nucleus decays spontaneously are known as radioactive elements. The decay is accompanied by the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. All the elements which have an atomic number greater than $83$ are radioactive. The process by which a radioactive nucleus splits to give two nuclei of smaller masses is known as nuclear fission. In fusion reactions, a larger nucleus is formed by the combination of two small nuclei. Fission reactions are used as a source of energy in nuclear power plants.