What is the difference between solar power and nuclear power?

Nuclear power uses the heat produced by nuclear fission, with the reactor located here on planet earth, behind lead, steel, and concrete shielding. The fission process results in radioactive materials that must be taken out of the reactor and stored elsewhere (behind other lead, steel, and concrete shielding). read more

There are numerous similarities between nuclear and solar energy. The most significant one is that they are pollution-free and have no direct emission of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. Both nuclear and solar energy will give a carbon dioxide saving of 1330kg for 1kw electric power per year (Bosshard, 2006). read more

Fission nuclear power comes from a very energy dense source that only humans can access. Solar power comes from a very diffuse flow of electromagnetic radiation, sunlight, which is the energy that sustains almost all life on Earth. It also drives the weather and even ocean circulation. read more

The debate between solar and nuclear energy is very interesting. Like you stated in your post each power has their own advantages. Nuclear power would probably run away with the trophy of not for environmental holdups. read more