- #1
Curiouscitize
- 8
- 0
Hello, new here.
I'm not sure if I've placed this in the appropriate section, but here it goes.
I have a few questions.
1) I know that when spent fuel rods come out of a reactor they are extremely hot and if not cooled, can meltdown. How long do they need to be cooled before they are cool enough (without outside assistance) to not meltdown? I've heard it takes 5 to 10 years but I really don't know.
2) I've been researching nuclear waste, and frankly, it is extremely confusing. On one hand people insist this stuff is an apocalyptic nightmare for the next *insert biggest number you can think of here* but then on the other hand I've heard people say that high-level nuclear waste loses a good chunk of its toxicity after a couple centuries. At what point are they as dangerous as things like lead, mercury, etc.
3)I know radioactive waste gives off alpha, beta, and gamma rays, but the most damaging is gamma. From what I've read (and correct me if I am wrong), alpha and beta rays need very little shielding (that 10 ft of air could even do the job). How long do the gamma rays last in comparison to the alpha and beta rays?
And last but not least.
4) When does nuclear waste go from being a global threat, to being a local threat?
If anyone could answer these questions I would greatly appreciate it! :)
I'm not sure if I've placed this in the appropriate section, but here it goes.
I have a few questions.
1) I know that when spent fuel rods come out of a reactor they are extremely hot and if not cooled, can meltdown. How long do they need to be cooled before they are cool enough (without outside assistance) to not meltdown? I've heard it takes 5 to 10 years but I really don't know.
2) I've been researching nuclear waste, and frankly, it is extremely confusing. On one hand people insist this stuff is an apocalyptic nightmare for the next *insert biggest number you can think of here* but then on the other hand I've heard people say that high-level nuclear waste loses a good chunk of its toxicity after a couple centuries. At what point are they as dangerous as things like lead, mercury, etc.
3)I know radioactive waste gives off alpha, beta, and gamma rays, but the most damaging is gamma. From what I've read (and correct me if I am wrong), alpha and beta rays need very little shielding (that 10 ft of air could even do the job). How long do the gamma rays last in comparison to the alpha and beta rays?
And last but not least.
4) When does nuclear waste go from being a global threat, to being a local threat?
If anyone could answer these questions I would greatly appreciate it! :)