TOPIC:-NUCLEAR ENERGY

 The energy stored in the nucleus of an atom.  Atomic energy: the energy released by a nuclear reaction

 Nuclear fission is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts and producing free neutrons and photons (in the form of gamma rays) and nuclear energy.  Mainly U235, 239 Pu are used in nuclear fission

 In nuclear fusion reaction two light atomic nuclei fuse together to form a heavier nucleus and release energy.  And the power generated by nuclear fusion reactions refers to nuclear power.

 India has a flourishing and largely indigenous nuclear power program and expects to have 20,000 MWe nuclear capacity on line by It aims to supply 25% of electricity from nuclear power by  Because India is outside the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty due to its weapons program, it has been for 34 years largely excluded from trade in nuclear plant or materials, which has hampered its development of civil nuclear energy until  Due to these trade bans and lack of indigenous uranium, India has uniquely been developing a nuclear fuel cycle to exploit its reserves of thorium.  From 2009, foreign technology and fuel are expected to boost India's nuclear power plans considerably.  India has a vision of becoming a world leader in nuclear technology due to its expertise in fast reactors and thorium fuel cycle.

 Fission reaction is a chain reaction where fusion is not a chain reaction  In Fission reaction energy produced is high as compared to fusion reaction.  Fusion occurs natrually in stars and is the power source of the Sun where fission reaction is not a natural.

 Nuclear power generation does emit relatively low amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). The emissions of green house gases and therefore the contribution of nuclear power plants to global warming is therefore relatively little.  This technology is readily available, it does not have to be developed first.  It is possible to generate a high amount of electrical energy in one single plant.

 The problem of radioactive waste is still an unsolved one. The waste from nuclear energy is extremely dangerous.  High risks: Despite a generally high security standard, accidents can still happen. It is technically impossible to build a plant with 100% security.  The energy source for nuclear energy is Uranium. Uranium is a scarce resource  The time frame needed for formalities, planning and building of a new nuclear power generation plant is in the range of 20 to 30 years in the western democracies. In other words: It is an illusion to build new nuclear power plants in a short time.