Final answer:
The Chernobyl disaster in April 1986 was the worst nuclear power plant accident in history. It occurred due to an unauthorized experiment that caused an uncontrollable chain reaction, resulting in a steam explosion that released a large amount of radioactive material.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Chernobyl Disaster
The Chernobyl disaster in April 1986 was the worst nuclear power plant accident in history. It occurred due to an unauthorized experiment that caused an uncontrollable chain reaction, resulting in a steam explosion that released a large amount of radioactive material.
Step-by-step explanation:
- During the experiment, the reactor at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant became unstable and its chain reaction increased beyond control.
- The steam pressure in the reactor rose to extremely high levels and ruptured the reactor, causing a steam explosion.
- The explosion dispersed radioactive material into the environment, contaminating a large area.
The immediate aftermath resulted in 31 deaths and about 200 cases of acute radiation sickness. It is estimated that long-term, there may be 25,000 to 50,000 additional cancer cases attributable to the Chernobyl disaster.