With easy-to-read text, full-color photos, and captivating graphics, this book examines the background, pros and cons, and future of nuclear power. Simplified diagrams, such as the splitting of uranium atoms during nuclear fission and the labeled parts of a nuclear reactor, illustrate advanced concepts. Readers will learn about nuclear waste, reprocessing, nuclear radiation, and nuclear weapons, as well as the accidents at Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. Modern nuclear reactor designs, such as passive reactors, fast reactors, pebble-bed reactors, and heavy-water reactors are discussed, as well as nuclear fusion. Environmental topics, including the burning of fossil fuels, carbon dioxide emissions, global warming, and pollution, are also introduced. Informative sidebars, bold glossary terms, and an index accompany engaging text and interactive graphic elements.