Year 12 Atomic, Quantum and Nuclear Research Assignment
More Power with Less Pollution: Nuclear Technology for Australia’s Next Generation
As populations grow, countries develop and industries boom, demand for energy continues to increase. Many countries see nuclear power as a way of meeting their electricity needs while reducing their CO2 emissions. There are many misconceptions in society about nuclear power. While it may be dangerous, nuclear can solve the energy demand for a country’s growing population, particularly Australia. The truth behind nuclear physics will be discussed in this report, the types of nuclear radiations and its effects, the enormous amount of energy a nuclear reaction can produce, the developments of nuclear generators,
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In the next 50 years, there will be virtually unlimited energy for everyone who needed it and if it is compact enough, airplanes, ships, cars and spacecraft that could fly with zero emissions for months or years at a time. It could also mean the end of fossil fuel pollution and mining. And if energy is as abundant as some fusion models predict, wireless power could be obtained.
4. Nuclear Energy: Supporting Australia’s Power Production
Most of the world’s source of uranium comes from Australia. According to the World Nuclear Association, 31% of the world’s uranium resources come from Australia; however, Australia has not developed a nuclear power plant. By developing a nuclear power plant, Australia can benefit greatly in terms of power production as it does not emit CO2 and produces a high amount of electricity generation. By working together with nuclear support organisations such as IAEA, WANO or ASN, Australia could build a power plant in 20 years.
Despite the dangers of radiation and meltdowns, nuclear reactors continue to advance and improve the safety and quality of the reactors. Fusion reactors are currently under construction and will be ready to use in several years. As a developed country, Australia should participate in the development of future technology that is nuclear
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