For over 50 years, critical issues have arisen over using nuclear power to generate electricity, ones that have raised both hopes and serious doubts. Citizens have asked and continue to ask important questions: How does nuclear fission produce energy? Is this energy produced safely? What are the safeguards against a meltdown? Can a nuclear power plant explode like an atom bomb? Is there a danger that nuclear fuel can be diverted to make nuclear weapons? What is radioactivity? How long will nuclear waste products remain radioactive and how will such wastes be disposed? What risks and benefits are associated with nuclear power? And finally, how crucial is nuclear power to our present and future energy requirements? In this chapter, we address these questions. In every instance, we combine scientific fundamentals, applications, technology, and societal implications. Moreover, we try to temper emotionalism with understanding to help readers weigh the risks and benefits of nuclear energy. We begin by examining the prospects for nuclear power in the coming years. But, before we start, we ask you to consider your own position regarding nuclear power by completing 7.1 Consider This.