Final answer:
Nuclear power provides about 20% of the electricity in the United States. It is considered a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, which constitute about 80% of U.S. energy consumption. The role of nuclear power is expanding globally due to environmental concerns and the search for sustainable energy sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the United States, nuclear power plays a significant role in the country's electricity production, providing about 20% of the electricity. Nuclear power plants, such as the one depicted in Figure 8.8.7 located in Arkansas, are an essential part of the energy mix. As of 2015, fossil fuels dominated U.S. energy consumption, accounting for about 80% of the total, while nuclear power represents a smaller yet considerable portion.
Comparisons on an international scale reveal the diversity in reliance on nuclear energy. For instance, France generates approximately 70% of its electricity from nuclear power, indicating a heavier dependence relative to the U.S. While the U.S. manages 103 nuclear power plants contributing to its electrical grid, there is also a significant environmental contrast with coal-based power production. The 600 coal-burning plants in the U.S. not only provide the majority share of electricity at 48.5%, but they also release a large amount of greenhouse gases and other pollutants.
Concerns over these environmental impacts, the growth in energy demand, and the potential depletion of fossil fuel reserves position nuclear power as a critical alternative. Worldwide, nuclear power contributes roughly 16% to global electricity generation. The U.S., specifically, produces and consumes about 22% of the world's nuclear-generated electricity. The anticipated increase in nuclear power generation reflects the ongoing efforts to combat global warming and the search for sustainable and less pollutant energy sources.