When discussing energy potential, uranium is noted for being how many times more potent than fossil fuels?

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Prepare for UCF's PHY1038 Physics of Energy, Climate Change, and Environment Exam 2. Use our features like flashcards and in-depth explanations for each question to boost your preparation and confidence!

Uranium is recognized for its significant energy density, which reflects how much energy can be obtained from a given amount of fuel. Specifically, uranium can yield energy that is approximately 10 million times more potent than that of fossil fuels. This high potential is a result of the processes involved in nuclear fission, where uranium nuclei split to release an immense amount of energy.

In contrast, fossil fuels—like coal, oil, and natural gas—release energy through combustion, which is considerably less efficient by comparison. Thus, the ability of uranium to produce such an enormous amount of energy from a relatively small mass makes it an incredibly powerful energy source, underscoring why it is often viewed as a viable option in discussions about sustainable energy and climate change mitigation.