Lab 4: For Each Assignment, Use The M.U.S.E. Link ✓ Solved

LAB 4 For each assignment, you will use the M.U.S.E. link to

In this lab, you will see the time progression of impacts associated with either coal-fired or nuclear power plants for electricity generation to help you write up a scientific paper that centers on the following: Given that the current 2 primary sources of electricity generation are coal and nuclear power plants, which of these sources is better for human sustainability? Analyze Energy Sources Lab Everything people do in their daily lives involves the consumption of resources—particularly energy. With respect to energy, electricity is one of the most important resources consumed and also one of the highest in demand.

Traditionally, fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil have dominated the U.S. energy mix; however, as it is well-known, carbon-emitting energy sources are very detrimental to the environment and are contributing to global warming. Fortunately, alternative energy resources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power are becoming more efficient and prevalent in today’s energy economy. Using the M.U.S.E. link, review the background information and gather your data. Use the Lab 4 worksheet for assignment instructions and data collection. Please submit your completed assignment.

For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.

Paper For Above Instructions

Electricity generation methods significantly affect human sustainability and the environment. The two primary sources of electricity in the United States are coal and nuclear power, which present different impacts on human health, the ecosystem, and climate change. This paper analyzes these two energy sources to determine which is better for promoting human sustainability.

Coal Power: Impacts and Challenges

Coal-fired power plants have been the backbone of electricity generation in the U.S. for over a century, primarily due to the abundance of coal reserves and its low cost. However, coal power comes with significant environmental and health challenges. The combustion of coal releases a multitude of pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM). According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), coal-fired power plants are the largest source of CO2 emissions in the U.S., contributing to climate change and air quality deterioration (EPA, 2021).

The health impacts associated with coal use are alarming. A study by the American Thoracic Society found that air pollution from coal combustion is responsible for thousands of premature deaths each year in the U.S. due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases (Schraufnagel et al., 2019). Furthermore, coal mining operations can lead to habitat destruction, water pollution, and soil degradation, adversely affecting local ecosystems. The economic costs associated with these health and environmental impacts are substantial, with estimates suggesting that coal-related health issues may cost the U.S. healthcare system over $74 billion annually (Cameron et al., 2019).

Nuclear Power: Advantages and Risks

Nuclear power, on the other hand, is often touted as a cleaner alternative to coal. It produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making it a crucial player in combatting climate change. According to the World Nuclear Association, nuclear power plants emit about 29 grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour, compared to over 800 grams for coal (World Nuclear Association, 2021). This stark difference in emissions makes nuclear energy an attractive option for reducing overall carbon footprints.

However, nuclear power has its own set of challenges. The risk of catastrophic failures, as seen in the Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters, presents severe concerns regarding public health and safety. Long-lived radioactive waste also poses disposal challenges that require secure and long-term storage solutions, leading to significant political and social debates (Friedlander et al., 2020). Despite these risks, advancements in reactor technology, such as the development of small modular reactors and improved safety protocols, have made nuclear energy safer and more efficient in recent years.

Economic Factors and Sustainability

The economic viability of coal versus nuclear power is also crucial in assessing their impacts on human sustainability. Coal power plants are generally cheaper to build and maintain compared to nuclear plants. However, when factoring in the external costs associated with coal (healthcare, environmental restoration, and climate change mitigation), the economic argument becomes less straightforward. Transitioning away from coal to nuclear energy may necessitate significant initial investments but could yield long-term savings in health costs and environmental benefits (Muttitt et al., 2020).

Furthermore, as renewable energy sources like solar and wind become more cost-competitive, the future role of both coal and nuclear power may be further diminished. Sustainable energy strategies should prioritize investments in renewable technologies, which do not carry the same environmental and health burdens as fossil fuels or nuclear power.

Conclusion

Ultimately, when comparing coal and nuclear power, it becomes clear that nuclear energy is a more sustainable option for human health and environmental preservation. While both sources present challenges, the devastating impacts of coal pollution on air quality and public health, coupled with its contribution to climate change, significantly outweigh the risks associated with nuclear energy. Transitioning to nuclear power—and ideally, complementing it with renewable technologies—will enhance human sustainability and promote a healthier planet.

References

• Cameron, S., & others (2019). The Health and Economic Costs of Coal Pollution. Environmental Research Letters.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2021). Climate Change and Energy Efficiency in the Power Sector. Retrieved from [EPA website link].
• Friedlander, R., & others (2020). Radioactive Waste Management: Challenges and Solutions. Nuclear Technology.
• Schraufnagel, D. E., & others (2019). Health Benefits of Reducing Air Pollution. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.
• Muttitt, G., & others (2020). The Economic Case for a Transition from Coal to Nuclear Energy. Energy Policy.
• World Nuclear Association. (2021). Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Electricity Generation. Retrieved from [WNA website link].
• National Resources Defense Council (NRDC). (2021). Coal's Impact on Human Health.
• United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2020). Global Climate Change: An Overview.
• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). (2019). Climate Change and Nuclear Power.
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). (2022). Nuclear Energy and Its Impact on the Environment.