The Production of Nuclear Energy 

 
 
12.2  The Production of Nuclear Energy 
 
1. Nuclear energy is produced through nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
 
Nuclear Fission Nuclear Fusion
A heavy nucleus break up to form two lighter nuclei Two light nuclei combine to form a heavy nucleus
It involves a chain reaction Chain reaction is not involved
The heavy nucleus is bombared with neutrons Light nuclei are heated to an extremely high temperature
Disposal of nuclear waste is a great environmental problem Disposal of nuclear waste is not involved
Raw material is not easily available and is costly Raw materials is comparatively cheap and easily available
 

2. Reasons of some countries choose nuclear energy as their energy source

  • Lack of other energy sources
  • Vast country and high population density
  • Source of national income
  • Sophisticated technology