Why Nuclear Energy is Making a Comeback

The video discusses the evolving role of nuclear energy in addressing climate change, highlighting its potential to complement renewable sources like wind and solar. It covers the history of nuclear power in the US, including past challenges and accidents, and explores current efforts to revive the industry through maintaining existing reactors and developing new technologies like small modular reactors. The video also addresses the economic and political hurdles faced by the nuclear sector, as well as the ongoing debate over its environmental impact. Despite challenges, there is optimism about nuclear energy's future role in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

What is the main reason for the renewed interest in nuclear power?

• The reduction in nuclear waste

• The discovery of new uranium deposits

• The intensifying threat of global warming

• The decline in fossil fuel reserves

What is the main goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050?

• To reduce energy costs

• To promote fossil fuels

• To eliminate carbon emissions

• To increase nuclear waste

What event in 1979 significantly impacted the US nuclear industry?

• The Exxon Valdez oil spill

• The Fukushima disaster

• The Chernobyl disaster

• The Three Mile Island accident

What was a major challenge faced by the US nuclear industry in the early 2010s?

• Increased demand for nuclear energy

• Lack of skilled workers

• Government restrictions on nuclear power

• Competition from cheaper natural gas and renewables

What is a small modular reactor (SMR)?

• A reactor that uses solar energy

• A reactor that is built on-site

• A reactor that uses wind energy

• A reactor that is mass-produced in a factory

Which startup, founded by Bill Gates, is working on a commercial reactor in Wyoming?

• Terra Power

• Fusion Energy

• Kairos

• Nu Scale

What is the expected timeline for the first functioning small modular reactor?

• By the mid-2040s

• By the mid-2050s

• By the mid-2030s

• By the mid-2020s

What is the role of the US government in the nuclear industry?

• Reducing nuclear waste

• Building nuclear plants

• Offering financial support and licenses

• Providing uranium resources

What is a major concern of environmental groups regarding nuclear energy?

• Radioactive waste and reactor meltdowns

• Lack of government support

• Limited availability of uranium

• High cost of construction

What promising nuclear technology is being developed alongside fission?

• Solar fusion

• Wind fission

• Nuclear fusion

• Hydro fusion