A disadvantage of using nuclear energy is the radioactive wastes it produces.

A disadvantage of using nuclear energy is the radioactive wastes it produces.

• A. Hydroelectric
• B. Wind
• C. Nuclear
• D. Coal

Answer: (C)

Nuclear energy has a notable drawback: it creates radioactive waste that stays hazardous for long periods. After fuel is used in a reactor, the waste must be isolated and securely stored for thousands of years, which poses safety, environmental, and cost challenges. This long-term disposal issue is specific to nuclear power, setting it apart from the other options. Hydroelectric and wind electricity come without producing radioactive byproducts, and coal, while it has other environmental downsides like air pollution and ash, does not generate long-lived radioactive waste.

Nuclear energy has a notable drawback: it creates radioactive waste that stays hazardous for long periods. After fuel is used in a reactor, the waste must be isolated and securely stored for thousands of years, which poses safety, environmental, and cost challenges. This long-term disposal issue is specific to nuclear power, setting it apart from the other options. Hydroelectric and wind electricity come without producing radioactive byproducts, and coal, while it has other environmental downsides like air pollution and ash, does not generate long-lived radioactive waste.