ResourcesThe Nuclear Energy Debate

Nuclear energy refers to use of nuclear fission to create energy required for electricity production.

Despite its use around the world, the use of nuclear power remains controversial in Australia. The graph on the right shows the use of nuclear power in different countries.

Model 1 – Understanding the Basics of the Nuclear Power Debate

Watch the following video and answer the following questions.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7LO8lL4Ai4

Questions

1. Explain how nuclear power can be used to generate electricity.2. List the advantages and disadvantages presented in the video regarding the use of nuclear

power.3. Research the attitudes towards nuclear power use in TWO of the countries in the graph.

Model 2 – The Nuclear Power Debate in Australia

Read the following article:

http://theconversation.com/nuclear-power-isnt-economically-feasible-in-australia-but-34958

Below are two quotes from the article.

“Nuclear, in the current context, is uneconomic in Australia. But so are large-scale renewables that will meet demand.”

“Provided the atmosphere is treated as a free dump, and climate stability is treated as inconsequential to our well-being, the market winner in Australia is incumbent coal. That won’t alter unless we demand change.”

Questions

1. Using secondary sources:(a) evaluate the validity of the concerns raised in the two quotes from the article in

Model 2.(b) find the attitudes of Australians towards nuclear power and state how that has

changed over time.2. The Australian Government has proposed a referendum on the following topic:

Do you think nuclear power will be used in Australia in the future? Imagine you are an advocate of a particular role. Write down arguments that you would use to support your viewpoint if you were:

(a) pro-nuclear power

(b) anti-nuclear power