Cause Of Nuclear Pollution
Nuclear power stations do not cause pollution. This is unlike the burning of coal and gas that releases CO2 and other toxic gases in to the atmosphere. The only nuclear pollution comes from issues related to nuclear waste disposal. |
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However, nuclear pollution is extremely hazardous in nature. It occurs as a result of nuclear explosions that are performed while conducting nuclear tests. These nuclear tests are carried out to invent better nuclear weapons. The explosions cause release of 15 to 20% radioactive material into the stratosphere. On entering this layer, they start falling into the earth’s atmosphere. This fall can take any where from 6months to several years. 5% of these radioactive particles enter troposphere, which is the lowest layer of the atmosphere.
The smallest particles of the radioactive material are called fallout. The fallout settles on the leaves of plants and trees. These leaves are eaten by the grazing animals. Radioactive material now enters the ecosystem. Humans consume these particles through the process of food chain. Serious health problems now arise. Ingestion of radioactive material can lead to cancer and genetic mutation in humans. Fallouts that do not drop on leaves accumulate over the sea. This can be harmful for the sea life, which ultimately affects the humans.
It isn’t necessary that only nuclear power stations cause nuclear pollution. Even other industries, not related to nuclear power production, can also contribute to it. Coal has small amounts of radioactive material in the form of uranium and thorium. These do not burn completely and become part of fly ash. Even while producing oil and gas, radium and similar elements are released in to the air.
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Nuclear fusion is the process where nuclei of two or more atoms are fused or joined. This requires conditions of extreme temperatures in order to release energy. Nuclear fusion of helium is what takes place in the sun’s atmosphere, thereby releasing energy to the earth. 
