Nuclear Power

Nuclear power is safe and relatively inexpensive source of energy.
==Fission==
The reserves of uranium, the major fuel for nuclear power plants, are also very large.
In public mind nuclear power went from this supposed clean and perfect energy source to becoming the demon of nuclear war, chernobyl and three-eyed fish. Despite the irrational fear of nuclear power, and opposition of "environmental" groups, nuclear power is widely used and in many countries is the largest source of energy. Some countries, such as the USA, have stopped the construction of new reactors, while others have not.
But there are little rational reasons today to avoid using nuclear power. Safe nuclear power is entirely feasible right now. For example, pebble bed nuclear reactors can't melt down, provide copious energy, and don't emit CO<SUB>2</SUB>.
In 2000s small, low-maintenance nuclear reactors have became possible. For example, Toshiba has developed 4S reactors ("super-safe, small and simple") with the capacity of 10-megawatt that can be installed underground and provide energy uninterrupted for 30 years before refueling. It is expected that first such reactors will be put into operation before 2010. 
Another area are long-lasting batteries. In the future a small nuclear battery may be able to hold enough power for a small digital device, such as a digital camera or a handheld computer for a few years.
==Fusion==
Nuclear power will become even more popular in the future, because we will run out of oil and natural gas much sooner than of uranium. Thermonuclear fusion is a very likely development of nuclear energy in the mid-term future. Research is being conducted around the world, aimed at perfecting the techniques required. See for details.
==References==
* Alaska Village Moves from Diesel to 'Micro-Nuke', Roland Piquepaille's Technology Trends, February 6, 2005.
* Frequently Asked Questions About Nuclear Energy. An excellent reference on nuclear power.
Category:Economy