BBC Inside Science What happens when you bomb a uranium enrichment site?
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Jul 24, 2025 Nuclear materials scientist Simon Middleburgh from the Nuclear Futures Institute discusses the repercussions of US airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. He outlines the dangers of uranium enrichment above safe levels and environmental risks involved in such actions. Caroline Steele, a BBC science journalist, shares exciting news about advancements in astronomy and highlights innovative research in genetics, including the creation of mice with two fathers. Together, they explore the intersections of science, ethics, and the implications of modern discoveries.
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How Uranium Enrichment Works
- Uranium enrichment increases the percentage of uranium-235, the fissile isotope useful for energy production.
- Enrichment facilities use centrifuges to increase uranium-235 from about 0.7% to typical reactor levels around 5%.
Enrichment Beyond 20% Raises Concerns
- Enrichment of uranium beyond 20% is suspicious and typically linked to weapon development.
- The effort to enrich from 20% to weapons-grade (~90%) is easier than earlier stages.
Enrichment Site Bombing Risks Are Lower
- Bombing uranium enrichment sites is not an environmental disaster like reactor meltdowns.
- Enrichment facilities contain uranium hexafluoride, which is toxic but less dangerous than fission products.