Nuclear Waste

Definition

Nuclear waste is the radioactive material produced during nuclear power generation or nuclear weapons production. It remains highly dangerous for thousands of years and requires specialized storage facilities for safe containment.

Related terms

Radioactive Decay: The process by which unstable atomic nuclei release radiation over time.

Spent Fuel Rods: Used fuel rods from nuclear reactors that contain highly radioactive materials.

Yucca Mountain Repository: A proposed deep geological repository in Nevada, USA, intended for the long-term storage of high-level nuclear waste.