Nuclear fission provides much of the worlds electric power. Which statement best describes the environmental impact of the radioactive waste produced in the fission reaction?

A) Millions of tons of radioactive waste products must be stored for decades before they are safe.

B) A relatively small amount of radioactive waste products must be stored for decades before they are safe.

C) Millions of tons of radioactive waste products must be stored for thousands of years before they are safe.

D) A relatively small amount of radioactive waste products must be stored for thousands of years before they are safe.

Question

Raymond Spencer

Biology

25 June, 16:53

Nuclear fission provides much of the worlds electric power. Which statement best describes the environmental impact of the radioactive waste produced in the fission reaction?

A) Millions of tons of radioactive waste products must be stored for decades before they are safe.

B) A relatively small amount of radioactive waste products must be stored for decades before they are safe.

C) Millions of tons of radioactive waste products must be stored for thousands of years before they are safe.

D) A relatively small amount of radioactive waste products must be stored for thousands of years before they are safe.

+5

Answers (2)

Know the Answer?

Amber Gordon · Answer 1

The answer is; C

Radioactive waste is dangerous because it continues to decay releasing radioactive elements and harmful electromagnetic radiation that can destroy genetic material - hence cause cancer. The waste, therefore, has to be stored safety, and avoiding any contamination to the environment, and also for long periods of time until there is enough time for decay into less harmful products.

Patience Terrell · Answer 2

The answer is D

Explanation:

A relatively small amount of radioactive waste products must be stored for thousands of years before they are safe.