b) What are the downsides of nuclear power?

Nuclear power, while a significant source of energy, has several downsides:

1. Radioactive Waste: The biggest issue is the production of radioactive waste, which remains hazardous for thousands of years. Disposing of this waste safely is a major challenge.

2. High Initial Costs: Building a new nuclear power plant is expensive and time-consuming. It requires a significant investment upfront, which can be a barrier to entry.

3. Risk of Accidents: While accidents are rare, when they do occur, they can be catastrophic. The Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters are examples of the potential risks.

4. Limited Fuel Supply: The uranium used in nuclear power plants is a finite resource and is not renewable.

5. Potential for Weaponization: The technology and materials used in nuclear power can also be used to produce nuclear weapons, which is a significant security concern.

6. Environmental Impact: Although nuclear power produces no carbon emissions, mining and refining uranium ore does have an environmental impact.

7. Decommissioning: Decommissioning a nuclear power plant once it has reached the end of its life is a complex and costly process.