During the nuclear incident at the Fukushima nuclear reactor in Japan on March 11, 2011, radioactive isotopes were discharged into the environment. One of these isotopes was cesium-137, and its radioactive decay is depicted in the graph.

Question

What conclusion can be drawn about nuclear power from the information presented in the graph?

(1 point)
Responses

Engineers must prioritize the swift disposal of nuclear waste to initiate the decay process promptly.
Engineers must prioritize the swift disposal of nuclear waste to initiate the decay process promptly.

Waste materials from various energy sources undergo decay, similar to nuclear radiation.
Waste materials from various energy sources undergo decay, similar to nuclear radiation.

Nuclear radiation can persist in the environment for extended periods because its decay can be a lengthy process.
Nuclear radiation can persist in the environment for extended periods because its decay can be a lengthy process.

Nuclear radiation can be safely disposed of in any location due to its natural decay process.
Nuclear radiation can be safely disposed of in any location due to its natural decay process.
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Answer 1

The most appropriate conclusion that can be drawn from the information presented in the graph about nuclear power is:

Nuclear radiation can persist in the environment for extended periods because its decay can be a lengthy process.

This conclusion highlights the long-lived nature of certain radioactive isotopes, like cesium-137, which can remain hazardous in the environment for significant lengths of time, emphasizing the importance of careful management and disposal of nuclear waste.