Out of optionsOn and off, could it be that simple? Energy is there whenever we need it, we think. It's not as simple as turning on the light switch, replacing the light bulbs, and paying the electric bills. Today, our energy comes primarily from coal, natural gas, oil, wind, solar and nuclear. Faced with the depletion of natural resources, we must start thinking about what will fuel our future. Although there are still many challenges to overcome and technologies to be discovered, many say that nuclear energy is becoming a major part of our future. However, nuclear meltdowns and disasters are causing many people and scientists to question the possibility of a world powered by nuclear energy. What are the challenges and positive aspects of nuclear energy today? Could nuclear power become part of our future energy source? The entire process of nuclear energy begins with uranium. Uranium is the fuel for nuclear reactors, often harvested near coal mines. Uranium is found in two types, U-235 and U-238, the one needed for nuclear energy is U-235. Uranium U-235 is one of the least abundant elements, making up only 0.000002 percent of the Earth's crust. Although it is quite rare, one pound of uranium can produce the same amount of energy as three million pounds of coal. U-235 is unstable in nature and highly radioactive, making it an ideal partner in the fission process. (How Nuclear Power Works 2) The process of harvesting energy from atoms is complicated and has many variables. It begins with fission, which is the division of a nucleus with neurons. The harvested uranium is transformed into small pellets, placed in twelve-foot rods. These rods will be placed in the reactor core, a key element of the fission process. The fission process middle of paper......ing nuclear waste is a new and flimsy technology, but remains a solution to the problems of excessive waste. Where, in the future, new technologies could allow waste to be fully recycled and reused in reactors to create more energy. With the positives and negatives of nuclear power, the real question that remains is “if not nuclear, then what else?” » (Felder of Rutgers)Far from being perfect, nuclear energy has the possibility of becoming part of our future energy source. With rising prices and limitations of natural resources, nuclear energy is necessary in our society. It will most likely be accompanied by wind, solar and other small sustainable and renewable sources. The technology is interesting and quite dangerous, but over time, as with any technological advancement, nuclear power is expected to become a safer and more reliable energy source for the future..