Nuclear power is definitely a ubiquitous aspect in the powering of cities all over the world and its energy produced is integral to the functions of our everyday actions. Around 30 countries all across the world have a cumulative total of 449 nuclear reactors while this number is set to increase to 45 and 509 respectively. In another viewpoint, nearly a tenth of the world?s energy supply comes from such. Overall the process is as follows. The supply of energy originates from when uranium atoms are split (called fission) producing heat. As a result, an output of steam turns a turbine to create energy, without using the typical resource of fuel during this. Though severely outshone in terms of usage by forms of fossil fuels which carry severe consequences through emitting greenhouse gases, nuclear power does bear a gamut of beneficial (though also admittedly detrimental) consequences.

Various capabilities of nuclear energy are evident especially in regards to general sustainability. The nuclear fuel resource is in great abundance, with over two centuries worth of availability at current demand, and even if prone to running low in amounts, can be recycled. Current advancements can also eradicate worries regarding proliferation in the extraction and reusing process. In addition, emissions constitute of solely hot water vapor with close to zero carbon dioxide, or around 50 times less than coal. Other waste produces have the potential to be disposed of properly and without negative consequences. All in all, current trends that rely too much on quickly diminishing supply can be shifted towards a much more renewable source.

As stated in the aforementioned, there are downsides. Cost is one especially due to the complexity and largeness in size of the power plants. Overemphasized safety systems are also in place, adding to the said problem. In the long term, however, savings may be prevalent in fuel savings (especially if the element thorium is used) though also bringing up the possibility of diverting away finance agreements from investors. Another factor is the inevitable rate of accidents coming from the release of radiation, and is comparable to chemical poisons as well. Atoms left over undecaying can also pose issues and have to be controlled in monitored environments.

Technology plays a major role in our 21st century and along with that is the pertinent topic of fusion, also known as the power behind stars.Rather than the initial splitting of atoms, this focuses on the coming together of two or more of such to obtain helium. In doing so, there is the prospect of a nearly inexhaustible source of energy supply. Now engineering challenges within the Earth?s environment (though space has the right conditions) hinder this road but nevertheless, countries such as China, Brazil, Canada, and Korea, have programs present. Only time will tell what innovations our future will bear.