Exploring Nuclear Energy

Nuclear Fusion and Fission Nuclear Fission Small nuclei into large Immense temperature and pressure Core of stars Large nuclei into small Critical mass to sustain Two isotopes we use Iron is the “dead end” of both fusion and fission – it is the lowest energy nucleus and cannot be split or fused.

Top 10 Nuclear Generating Countries, 2013 Data: Energy Information Administration

U.S. Electricity Production 2013 Data provided by US EIA Net Generation by Energy Source

Nuclear Energy Production Percent Electricity Generated by Nuclear Power VT 73.76% MN 20.52% NH 56.72% NE 20.06% SC 56.07% MS 19.91% NJ 51.15% AR 18.38% IL 49.16% WI 18.32% CT 47.29% LA 16.40% VA 41.46% KS 16.14% MD 37.73% OH 12.43% TN 36.66% FL 12.00% PA 35.23% MA 11.96% NC 34.49% IA 9.39% NY 32.97% MO 9.11% AZ 28.34% CA 8.98% GA 26.90% TX 8.91% MI 26.74% WA 7.24% AL 26.70% Data: Nuclear Energy Institute

Anatomy of a Nuclear Power Plant Source: NRC

Anatomy of a Nuclear Power Plant Source: NRC

Advantages of Nuclear Power Clean Plentiful Supply High energy content in uranium Small fuel pellet Can provide base load power Energy savings in transportation Operating cost is low after construction

Drawbacks to Using Nuclear Power Initial construction costs Radioactive waste byproduct Storage Natural disasters Public perception

For More Information The NEED Project www.need.org info@need.org 1-800-875-5029 Energy Information Administration U.S. Department of Energy www.eia.gov