# Explain why nuclear power stations are considered by some people to be a good choice for generating electricity, and why others oppose their use. In your answer, refer to both the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power.

> WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales) — 3.6 Nuclear energy · Explain · 5 marks

> Governments around the world are deciding how to meet future electricity demand while reducing carbon emissions. Nuclear power is one option being considered.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Nuclear fuel releases much more energy per kilogram than fossil fuels (or stated as: a small amount of fuel produces a large amount of energy)
2. Nuclear power stations do not produce carbon dioxide (or greenhouse gases) during normal operation / do not contribute directly to climate change
3. Nuclear power stations produce radioactive waste that is difficult to dispose of safely / remains hazardous for a very long time
4. Risk of a nuclear accident could release radioactive material into the environment, causing harm to people and wildlife over a wide area
5. Nuclear power stations are reliable / can generate electricity continuously regardless of weather conditions (unlike some renewable sources)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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