Which statement is true regarding coal-fired plants compared to nuclear plants?

When comparing coal-fired plants to nuclear plants, it is accurate to state that coal-fired plants contribute significantly to radioactivity in the environment, primarily through the release of trace amounts of radioactive isotopes that are naturally present in coal. However, claiming that they release more than 100 times more radioactivity than nuclear plants is a misrepresentation of the actual comparison. Nuclear plants, while they do generate some radioactive waste, operate under stringent safety protocols that avoid the release of radioactivity into the surrounding environment during normal operations.

Coal-fired plants, on the other hand, not only contribute to the emission of carbon dioxide, which is a key greenhouse gas, but they also produce other harmful pollutants, including sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which can lead to acid rain. Nuclear plants do not produce these substances during their operation, making the comparison in context quite stark.

In addition, coal mining practices can be dangerous, resulting in accidents and fatalities, whereas nuclear initiatives, while they involve mining for uranium, typically result in fewer mining-related deaths when compared on a broader scale. This context underscores the advantages of nuclear energy in terms of safety and environmental impact. Therefore, the more accurate statement regarding the environmental impacts and emissions from coal-fired plants compared to nuclear plants emphasizes their contributions