Chernobyl disaster

Definition

The Chernobyl disaster refers to an accident that occurred on April 26, 1986, at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. It was the worst nuclear power plant accident in history, resulting in a large release of radioactive materials and significant environmental and health impacts.

Related terms

Radioactive contamination: The presence of radioactive substances in an environment or on surfaces, which can be harmful to living organisms.

Nuclear meltdown:

A severe nuclear reactor accident where the reactor's core overheats and melts due to a loss of cooling or control.

Exclusion zone: An area surrounding a hazardous site where access is restricted due to safety concerns.