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The high level waste, which is contained in the spent fuel unloaded from the reactor from time to time, is extremely radioactive and to be exposed to it even for a short time (minutes) would be inevitably fatal. This is why it is treated so carefully, stored underwater at first and then in shielded containers. However it is not likely to be dispersed in the environment, so even if there was an accident during handling it would only affect the few people nearby. The only real worry would be if terrorists got hold of the material and made a 'dirty bomb' which could be released in a city center. Unless they had proper shielded handling equipment though they would probably kill themselves first.

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What type of reaction produces the most dangerous radioactive waste?

What type of reaction produces the most dangerous radioactive waste?


What plants have radioactive waste?

All plants have radioactive waste, especially fossil fuel plants.


Should radioactive waste and leaks be classed as pollution?

Radioactive waste depending on the dosage should be classified as 'pollution'. The waste word used really difines my reasoning. Its waste, unneeded products in our atmosphere, even if it is safe raioactive waste (in which i dont believe there is such a thing because further testing has not been done to work out future effects of radioactive waste on humans we may be slowly mutating) it is still unnatural 'waste' in our atmosphere. Definition of Pollution: the introduction of harmful substances or products into the environment. Radiation is not classified as healthy neither is waste and so far as i said there hasn't been further investigating into the long term effects of radiation even small leaks, so i would say that Raioactive waste/leaks should be classed as pollution.


What happens to Radioactive waste after?

most radioactive waste is put into special drums that are shipped to a special radioactive waste dump.some of it is concealed in sheets of glass or concrete and put in a place where it wont be touched for many of many years to come this is the most efficient way of doing it.


What is the biggest with radioactive waste?

The biggest problem with radioactive waste is how to safely and properly dispose of it. Finding suitable disposal facilities for radioactive waste is difficult. Depending on the type of waste disposed, the disposal facility may need to contain radiation for a very long time.

Related Questions

Why the nuclear waste harmful?

Because it is radioactive


Radioactive waste are harmful to living beings?

Yes


Are iPods Radioactive?

No, iPods are not radioactive. They do not emit radiation that could be harmful to human health.


How can radioactive waste be disposed of safely?

The typical process of removing radioactive waste is isolating the waste until it is no longer harmful to the environment. However this time period differs vastly from hours to millions of years.


What are unwanted radioactive products formed during nuclear reactions called?

Unwanted radioactive products formed during nuclear reactions are called nuclear waste or radioactive waste. These byproducts are often harmful to the environment and can remain radioactive for long periods of time, presenting challenges for disposal and management.


Is radioactive waste dangerous to humans and the environment?

Yes, radioactive waste is dangerous to humans and the environment because it emits harmful radiation that can cause serious health effects and contaminate the surrounding ecosystem. Proper disposal and containment of radioactive waste are crucial to minimize these risks.


What type of hazardous waste gives off radiation?

Radioactive hazardous waste gives off radiation. This includes materials such as spent nuclear fuel, radioactive medical waste, and contaminated laboratory equipment. Proper handling and disposal of radioactive waste is crucial to protect human health and the environment.


Which type of hazardous waste gives off radiation?

Radioactive hazardous waste gives off radiation, which can be harmful to humans and the environment if not properly contained and managed. Examples of radioactive waste include spent nuclear fuel, contaminated laboratory equipment, and certain medical materials.


What is the harmful material?

Harmful material refers to substances or substances that can cause damage to the environment, human health, or living organisms. This can include toxic chemicals, pollutants, radioactive materials, or hazardous waste. Proper handling and disposal of harmful materials are important to prevent negative impacts.


Radioactive particle that is harmful to human beings?

Plutonium-239 is a radioactive particle that is harmful to human beings due to its high toxicity and ability to emit high-energy alpha particles, which can damage cells and cause long-term health effects such as cancer and organ failure if ingested or inhaled.


Which form of energy production creates a radioactive waste product?

Nuclear energy production creates radioactive waste as a byproduct. This waste needs to be carefully managed and disposed of to prevent harm to the environment and human health.


What are the different types of ocean pollutants?

industrial waste, plastic, chemicals, soaps and detergents, human excreta, radioactive waste.