Atomic Energy, the Good and the Bad

Atomic Energy, The Good and The Bad

Atomic energy is energy formed by the controlled fission of radioactive elements, or more commonly their isotopes. Nuclear fission generally occurs with Uranium-235 and Plutonium crammed into a small space usually with a neutron moderator. The proceeding reaction generates heat, which rises into a steam turbine; the energy created by this controlled reaction can lead to electrical generation. But, as excellent as the technology sounds, through little research negative information can be found.

In the current state of science and politics the actual effects atomic energy are unknown. First, the arguments of pro-atomic energy civilians. The costs for the creation and use of atomic energy are on par with that of fossil fuel and wind energy. Atomic energy is pollution free fuel, with the exception of a meltdown or some other sort of accident. Atomic accidents have been limited to a select few and most of those were on the horribly designed Soviet RBMK reactors. The United States is the only country that forbids the recycling of atomic reactors, and all waste is treated as waste, rather than a commodity. They simply state that the USA is behind in the creation of Atomic energy in part to the business-run government and the lack of care about the environment.

But, in many opinions atomic energy should be forbidden because of its many dangers if not properly contained. The storing of atomic waste is a huge issue in itself. Many nations simply find a spot in the environment and dump their waste, however long term effects on the environment are detrimental to the civilians living around the area and all surrounding ecosystems. Another prominent problem is the effect terrorists, or corrupt governments could have if nuclear waste is not properly maintained. For example, the Bush regime has cut funding to protect and watch loose nuclear waste