Nuclear power plants work by harnessing the energy released from nuclear reactions, usually through a process called nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom is split into smaller parts. This process generates heat, which is used to produce steam and drive turbines that generate electricity.
There are several risks associated with nuclear energy, including the potential for accidents such as meltdowns or reactor core breaches, which can release harmful radiation into the environment. There are also concerns about the long-term storage of radioactive waste generated by nuclear plants, as well as the possibility of nuclear proliferation and the use of nuclear materials for weapons. Additionally, the construction and decommissioning of nuclear power plants can have environmental impacts, and there is always the risk of human error or sabotage leading to catastrophic events.