Question

which disadvantage of nuclear power use poses the greatest threat to the environment?
○ the emission of greenhouse gases
○ the proliferation of nuclear materials
○ the storage and management of radioactive wastes
○ the high cost of building facilities

Explanation:

1. Analyze Option 1: Nuclear power generation produces very little greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel - based power generation, so this is not a major environmental threat from nuclear power.
2. Analyze Option 2: The proliferation of nuclear materials is more of a threat to nuclear non - proliferation and global security rather than a direct environmental threat.
3. Analyze Option 3: Radioactive wastes from nuclear power plants are highly hazardous. They remain radioactive for long periods (thousands of years in some cases) and improper storage or management can lead to contamination of soil, water, and air, causing long - term damage to ecosystems and human health. This is a significant environmental threat.
4. Analyze Option 4: The high cost of building facilities is an economic disadvantage, not an environmental one.

Answer:

C. the storage and management of radioactive wastes