Starlight and the energy possibilities of a glass of water.pdf

Fisica y quimica

1. Starlight and the energy possibilities of a glass of water

2. CONCEPTS
Nuclear Fission
An atom splits into two smaller ones.
When an atom splits, a large amount of energy is released.
This is the process that takes place in nuclear power plants.
The most common fuel is uranium (also plutonium).
Uncontrolled fission can lead to an accident or an atomic bomb.
Fission produces radioactive waste but does not release greenhouse gases.

3. CONCEPTS
Nuclear Fusion
Two hydrogen atoms combine to form a helium atom.
When fusion occurs, a large amount of energy is released.
It does not produce radioactive waste.
Currently, we cannot produce it efficiently.
It is the process that takes place in stars (solar energy is of nuclear origin).
The fuel is hydrogen.

4. Nuclear power plant

5. CONCEPTS
Radioactive Waste
These are spent nuclear fuels and waste products from fission reactions in nuclear power plants.
Hospitals and other activities also generate radioactive waste.
They must be transported and stored safely and effectively.
Uncontrolled management can pose risks to health and the environment.
The “level of radioactivity” varies from one to another.
Depending on their danger, they can be stored on the surface or deep underground.

6. CONCEPTS
Power Plant
In power plants, electrical energy is generated from another type of energy.
There are different types of power plants:
●Thermal: coal is burned.
●Nuclear: energy released in nuclear fission is used.
●Hydroelectric: water from dams is used.
●Wind: wind is used.
●Others: geothermal, biogas, biomass…
The energy source turns a turbine that produces electricity.
The environmental impact of power plants depends on the energy source used.

7. CONCEPTS
SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
They are a set of global goals to eradicate poverty, protect the planet, and
ensure prosperity for all.
Of the 17, each one addresses a different issue.
Examples: SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
What can we do to achieve SDG 7?

8. CONCLUSIONS
Conclusions about the structure of the atom:

●Atoms can have different sizes.
●Atoms can be broken into smaller parts (they are not
indivisible).
●Different atoms have distinct names: hydrogen, helium,
uranium.