Everything Everywhere Daily

Nuclear Power

11 snips
Aug 19, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of nuclear power! Discover its incredible energy density, which far surpasses fossil fuels, and its impressive safety record. Explore the evolution of nuclear technology, from its origins in 1938 to modern advancements. Uncover the misconceptions surrounding safety and waste management. Hear about the second-generation reactors developed in the 1970s and how public perception shifted after pivotal events. This vital energy source may just hold the key to a sustainable energy future!
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INSIGHT

Energy Density Of Nuclear Fuel

  • Nuclear fission releases enormous energy: 1 kg of U-235 yields ~82 million megajoules if fully consumed.
  • That energy density is millions of times greater than fossil fuels and produces no emissions.
INSIGHT

Nuclear Uses Far Less Land

  • Nuclear provides 24/7 baseload power and uses far less land than wind or solar.
  • A 1 GW nuclear plant needs ~1.3 square miles versus 10–20x for solar and up to 100x for wind.
INSIGHT

Nuclear's Safety Compared To Others

  • Nuclear has one of the lowest death rates per terawatt among energy sources.
  • Its safety record is comparable to wind and solar at around 0.03 deaths per terawatt.
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