Uranium
Uranium is the key element of the nuclear power industry. Its properties make it an ideal fuel for nuclear reactors as it is one of the few elements that can effectively be used as a source of electrical energy. Many countries around the world have adopted the use of uranium in their nuclear reactors as a way of generating clean and useful electricity, with the UK itself now opting to invest in nuclear power.
Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive element and one of the heaviest elements on earth. It has an atomic number 92 and is generally found in igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks and soil. Uranium oxidises easily, meaning it is reactive and can be used to bond with different elements, enabling it to create powerful nuclear reactions when combined. It is also incredibly durable and long-lasting, making it perfect for use in power generation.
The nuclear industry has been using uranium for many decades and it is still a vital part of the way we generate energy from nuclear power. As mentioned before, the key attraction of uranium is its ability to create a powerful nuclear reaction that can be used to generate heat and electricity. Uranium can also be enriched, meaning it is possible to increase the level of its uranium-235, which increases its usefulness as a nuclear fuel.
In order to obtain usable uranium, it must be mined from the ground. The main source of uranium for the nuclear industry is from mines located in various countries around the world. It is a long and expensive process to obtain uranium but it is a necessary step in the development of nuclear power. Once extracted from the ground, uranium can then be enriched and used in reactors to generate electricity.
Uranium is an incredibly useful element and has a wide range of applications. It is widely used in the medical industry, including in the treatment of cancer, and is also widely used in the military, including in nuclear weapons. While it can be dangerous in the wrong hands, when used correctly it has the potential to provide clean, safe and efficient nuclear energy. It is therefore a vital part of the world’s energy supply.
