AP Environmental Science 6.6: Nuclear Energy

Practice AP Environmental Science questions on nuclear fission, uranium-235, electricity, radioactive waste, thermal pollution, and impacts.

[Maximum number: 3]

Earth's climate has changed over time by the addition of greenhouse gasses to the atmosphere. One approach to mitigate climate change is the use of nuclear power, rather than coal-burning power plants, for electricity generation.

(a)

Identify a fuel used in a nuclear power plant.

[ 1 ]

(b)

In 2021, $4.1 \times 10^{12}$ kilowatt hours (kWh) of commercial electricity was generated in the United States. Nuclear power accounted for 18.9% of the total commercial electricity. Calculate the amount of electricity in kWh generated by nuclear power in the United States in 2021. Show your work.

Another approach to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to switch from coal-burning power plants to natural gas power plants.

[ 2 ]

In 2021, $4.1 \times 10^{12}$ kilowatt hours ( kWh ) of commercial electricity was generated in the United States. Nuclear power accounted for 18.9\% of the total commercial electricity. Calculate the amount of electricity in kWh generated by nuclear power in the United States in 2021. Show your work.

One point for the correct setup to calculate the amount of electricity generated by nuclear power in 2021:

Accept one of the following:

- $\left(4.1 \times 10^{12} \mathrm{kWh}\right) \times 18.9 \%$

- $\left(4.1 \times 10^{12}\right) \times 0.189$

- $\frac{4.1 \times 10^{12}}{100}=\frac{\mathrm{x}}{18.9}$

1 point

One point for the correct calculation of the total amount of electricity generated by nuclear power in 2021:

Accept one of the following:

- 774,900,000,000

- $7.749 \times 10^{11}$

- $7.75 \times 10^{11}$

- $7.7 \times 10^{11}$

1 point

Total for part (c)

2 points

[Maximum number: 6]

Read the article below and answer the questions that follow.

Figure for Question 6.6 Nuclear Power question 2 — AP Environmental Science

(a)

State whether you agree or disagree with each of the following remarks made by Dr. Kull. For each remark, provide one justification for your position.

[ 2 ]

(i)

"Nuclear power plants produce no dangerous solid waste."

[ 1 ]

(ii)

"Using nuclear power avoids the release of greenhouse gases."

[ 1 ]

(b)

If the plan for a nuclear power plant in Fremont is approved, it will take several years for the plant to be built. Describe TWO environmental problems that could result from the construction of the plant (i.e., prior to operation).

[ 2 ]

If the plan for a nuclear power plant in Fremont is approved, it will take several years for the plant to be built. Describe TWO environmental problems that could result from the construction of the plant (i.e., prior to operation).
(2 points: 1 point for each correct description. Only the first two descriptions can earn a point)

- Habitat or riparian area destruction/fragmentation at the construction site

- Disruption of habitat caused by the installation of power lines

- Water pollution/stormwater runoff

- Soil compaction from the construction process or by machinery use

- Sediment runoff/erosion in wet weather

- Noise pollution from machinery

- Construction waste disposal/landfill

- Gases/pollution emitted from machinery such as $\mathrm{CO}_{2}, \mathrm{NO}_{2}, \mathrm{SO}_{2}, \mathrm{CO}, \mathrm{PM}$

(Note: Only problems relating to the construction of the power plant can earn a point.)

(c)

Identify a specific nuclear power plant at which a major accident has occurred. Explain one environmental consequence (other than effects on human health) of a nuclear power plant accident.

[ 2 ]

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Covered syllabus points

6.6 Nuclear Power question 1

Question (a)

Question (b)

6.6 Nuclear Power question 2

Question (a)

Question (i)

Question (ii)

Question (b)

Question (c)