A nucleus is one of the components of an atom. The nucleus comprises of protons and neutrons.  Nuclear science is based on the knowledge of neutrons and protons. Nuclear fission refers to the dispersal of the nucleus of an element and the isotopes. Nuclear fusion, on the other hand, refers to the combination of the nucleus of elements and isotopes. The principle of nuclear fusion and nuclear fission are used to generate electricity.

Nuclear fission refers to the splitting of heavy nucleus resulting in lighter nuclei. The process involves bombarding the heavy nucleus by neutrons. Consequently, it becomes unstable and starts to decompose while discharging a lot of energy. During the process, two or more neutrons are emitted. Notably, these neutrons cause more fission as they interact with fissionable nuclei which in return produce new nuclei. The process continues multiplying hence the term chain reaction.  Nuclear fission discharges energy in the form of heat. The method may occur naturally, however; in the present world, the process is nuclear reaction is man-made in commercial production of energy.

In nuclear fusion, two light nuclei will combine to produce a more stable heavier nucleus. The process is also exothermic. The energy generated during the fusion of light element arises due to the interaction between two conflicting forces. These forces include Coulomb force; a force that makes protons to repel each other and nuclear force; which brings the protons and the neutrons together.

Most power plants require rotating of a turbine in order to generate electricity. Some plants use gases, coal, nuclear energy and oil as fuels to heat water into steam which is used to rotate the turbine. Nuclear power is environmentally friendly since there is no carbon emission. Uranium atom is split through nuclear fission generating a lot of energy which is used to heat water to steam. During the process, the Uranium atom is split to release energy and neutrons. The neutrons released hit other Uranium atoms making them split as well. The process continues thus more neutrons and heat are produced. The heat generated builds steam which turns a turbine which powers a generator to create electricity. Nuclear fusion is not commonly used in generating electricity. However, the energy produced during the process is tapped and used to heat a fluid such as water or molten salts thus producing steam which in return spins the turbine.

Nuclear energy has a number of advantages. For instance, it helps to reduce greenhouse effects since gases such as Carbon(IV) Oxide is not omitted. It also helps to protect fossil fuels. However, nuclear energy is also dangerous to both human and animal health. When employees are exposed to radiations they are at risk of illnesses. The communities living near the waste disposal areas are also at risk since the waste materials are very volatile. In case of an accident, the wastes can explode thus harming the surrounding community.

Ionizing radiation has a lot of energy which may affect atoms in living cells. Arguably, this is prone to harm the genetic materials of a living thing. Fortunately, when the DNA is altered, the cells are able to correct the damage. In case the cell is not able to fix the DNA, it ends up dying or becoming cancerous. When one is also exposed to high level of radiation acute health impacts may occur such as; acute radiation syndrome and skin burns. Low risks of exposure to radiation may not have immediate health impacts but may lead to diseases such as cancer.

In the present world, the use of radiations has greatly increased. They are used in medical fields, generation of electricity as well as in industries with the aim of improving human lives. The principle of nuclear fission to generate electricity applies the concept of radiation. Uranium emits radioactive substances which are tapped in uranium fuel pellets. Traces of the radioactive components are likely o leak into the environment and cause serious environmental pollution.

In medical fields, a number of nuclear materials are used to determine medical conditions of various human organs. Radiation therapy and x-rays are examples of nuclear rations used in hospitals. During treatment, medic requires to have clear diagnostic information for effective treatment. Some organs such as the liver, bones, thyroids, heart etc. could be definitely imaged using radiation and their functions discovered. Developed countries have embraced the use of radioisotopes in the diagnosis of diseases. The isotope is admitted to the patient. The doctors then use a scanner to detect the decay product. Medics can understand the medical problem depending on the amount of isotope taken up by the body.

Radioactive materials are harmful to both human and animals. It is important to take into consideration proper safety measures to avoid illnesses. Radioisotopes are either long-living or short-living. While disposing of the wastes it is important to ensure that the two varieties are separated and the wastes disposed of in the appropriate containers. The employees should always be in protective clothes while handling radioactive components.

In conclusion, nuclear science is highly beneficial in the present world. Knowledge in atomic science is applicable in different sectors such as; energy, medical, research, and academics among other vital sectors. Electricity generated through nuclear fission is reliable and eco-friendly.  The use of nuclear power helps to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels. Consequently, this reduces the emission of greenhouse gases such as Carbon (IV) Oxide.

Radioactive substances, however, cause a health threat to human and animal life. Ionizing radiation may alter the DNA component due to their strong energy which may affect the atoms of living cells. The cells may die if they are not able to fix the challenge or it becomes cancerous. Prolonged exposure to radiation may have immediate medical impacts such as cancer, skin burns, and acute radiation syndrome.

Radioisotopes are useful in the medical sector. Medics can diagnose the condition of various body organs. Thus they offer effective treatment measures using radioactive isotopes. The United Nations has set in place a body to regulate nuclear energy. The body is known as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

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