How do nuclear power plants work to ensure absolute safety? To answer this question constantly tossed up in environmental forums, it may be best to understand what goes behind doors of a nuclear power plant.
In many developing nations, nuclear energy is a major source of electricity as it claims to be safe whilst producing sufficient levels to meet their needs.
Since coal and oil are considered depleting resources, the drive to explore nuclear energy as an alternative source is more evident than ever.
The mere mention of a nuclear power plant normally draws mixed reactions.
Perhaps due to historical events which are still rearing ugly heads, pun intended, in this current day and age, many may be hesitant to support the building of one in their neighborhood.
Whether it is the fear of seeing over-sized farm animals, glow-in-the-dark residents or setting off Geiger meters, nuclear energy is becoming more of a reality.
To put fluttering hearts at ease, strict rules and procedures are imposed in the running of a nuclear power plant.
In ensuring safety within the plant as well as surrounding areas, it is considered to be a safer technology as compared to conventional methods.
How do nuclear power plants work to generate the electricity supply? Leaving a lump of radioactive material on its own is not the solution as it breaks down and emits rays, not electrical charges.
Other than endangering those in close proximity, this is obviously not the solution sought.
When radioactive material breaks down, it is known as the fission process.
When this happens, a tremendous amount of heat is released.
To manage the heating process, water is used to control the temperature hike.
As the water is heated, it is converted into steam.
This is then pumped into a turbine which turns like a waterwheel placed atop a flowing river.
Electricity is thus the final outcome and sent to a power grid or plant.
Although the above covers the gist of the matter, it is not as simple in actual fact.
Many levels and mechanisms of control need to be implemented to ensure smooth and safe operations at all times.
Since radioactive material is the mainstay of the process, careful control over its behavior is crucial.
If too much heat is generated, there must be methods to slow down the fission process.
This is normally done via control rods which are lowered into the core to absorb the neutrons.
By pumping pressurized water into the reactor to cool it down, the process is also slowed down.
Uncontrolled overheating can result in reactor meltdown, an unfortunate incident in the dark annals of history.