Index

• Definition• Diagram of a nuclear power plant• How does a nuclear power plant operate?• Advantages and disadvantages • Nuclear energy in Spain, Europe and worldwide• Nuclear accidents• Conclusions• Credits

Definition

Nuclear energy is the energy released, either spontaneously or artificially, in nuclear reactions.

Diagram of a nuclear power plant

Diagram of a nuclear power plant

How does a nuclear power plant operate?

The nuclei of uranium atoms break, releasing a lot of heat, which makes the water turn into steam at a high pressure. This steam moves the turbines in order to produce electricity.

Advantages / Disadvantages • Nuclear energy does not produce CO².• It reduces the dependence on oil producers. • It generates part of the electrical energy we use .• Under strict control, nuclear power plants cause very little damage to the environment.

• Nuclear energy produces radioactive waste.

• Nuclear accidents are very dangerous.• It is difficult to control nuclear

weapons.• Nuclear power plants require a high

cost of construction and maintenance.• The use of this energy means a

dependence on uranium producers.

Nuclear energy in Spain

Nuclear power plant in Ascó (Tarragona)

In Spain, there are six nuclear power plants. The first nuclear power plant in Spain was built in 1969, the José Cabrera nuclear power plant.

Nuclear energy in Europe

In the European Union, there are approximately 143 nuclear power plants. 14% of the energy consumed by the EU is nuclear.

Nuclear energy worldwide

There are 418 nuclear power plants in the world. The use of nuclear power is increasing worldwide.

Nuclear accidents

1986 – Chernobyl, Ukraine. The most serious accident at a power plant in history

2011 – Fukushima, Japan . The second most serious accident at a nuclear plant

Tricastin, France

July, 2011

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,

USAMarch, 1979

Kyshtym, Soviet Union

September, 1957

Nuclear accidents

Conclusions• Nuclear energy is good because

it does not pollute and it is a renewable energy. In addition, it is used in medical treatments.

• However, a nuclear accident can be devastating. Moreover, nuclear waste can be very harmful if the adequate disposal measures are not taken.

Credits

By Sandra Martínez, Roi García and Sara BlancoBilingual section of Technology

Group 3º ESO-BIES Praia Barraña – Boiro (Spain)

March, 2016