In this unit, students will learn why nuclear fuel contains energy.  We will review the basics of nuclear chemistry and physics and discuss 3 types of nuclear radiation: alpha, beta, and gamma. We will look at some features of reactor design and spend much time discussing the pros and cons of nuclear energy.  Students will learn about some significant historical and current events such as Chernobyl, Three Mile Island, Fukushima, and even The Manhattan Project.  At the end of the unit, we expect students to be able to form a well educated opinion on the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. and worldwide.