Question

1. explain why nuclear fission releases so much more energy than chemical reactions. 2. describe two potential benefits and two potential risks of using nuclear energy. 5. approximately what percentage of the worlds electricity is produced by nuclear power? a) 5% b) 14% c) 25% d) 40%

Explanation:

1.

Nuclear fission releases more energy because it involves splitting of atomic nuclei. The mass - energy equivalence principle ($E = mc^{2}$) shows that a small amount of mass in nuclear reactions is converted into a large amount of energy. In chemical reactions, only electrons are involved in bonding changes, with much less mass - energy conversion.

Potential benefits: High energy density allows for large - scale power generation with relatively small amounts of fuel. Low greenhouse gas emissions during power generation compared to fossil fuels. Potential risks: Radioactive waste disposal is a long - term challenge as it remains hazardous for thousands of years. Risk of nuclear accidents which can have widespread environmental and health impacts.

Approximately 10 - 12% of the world's electricity is produced by nuclear power. This value can vary over time due to factors like construction of new plants and decommissioning of old ones.

Answer:

Nuclear fission releases more energy as it involves splitting of atomic nuclei and conversion of a small amount of mass into energy based on $E=mc^{2}$, while chemical reactions only involve electron - bonding changes with less mass - energy conversion.

2.