Title
Atoms and Ashes: A Global History of Nuclear Disasters,Used
Processing time: 1-3 days
US Orders Ships in: 3-5 days
International Orders Ships in: 8-12 days
Return Policy: 15-days return on defective items
Payment Option
A chilling account of more than half a century of nuclear catastrophes, by the author of the ?efinitive?(Economist) Cold War history, Nuclear Folly.Almost 145,000 Americans fled their homes in and around Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in late March 1979, hoping to save themselves from an invisible enemy: radiation. The reactor at the nearby Three Mile Island nuclear power plant had gone into partial meltdown, and scientists feared an explosion that could spread radiation throughout the eastern United States. Thankfully, the explosion never took placebut the accident left deep scars in the American psyche, all but ending the nation? love affair with nuclear power.In Atoms and Ashes, Serhii Plokhy recounts the dramatic history of Three Mile Island and five more accidents that that have dogged the nuclear industry in its military and civil incarnations: the disastrous fallout caused by the testing of the hydrogen bomb in the Bikini Atoll in 1954; the Kyshtym nuclear disaster in the USSR, which polluted a good part of the Urals; the Windscale fire, the worst nuclear accident in the UK? history; back to the USSR with Chernobyl, the result of a flawed reactor design leading to the exodus of 350,000 people; and, most recently, Fukushima in Japan, triggered by an earthquake and a tsunami, a disaster on a par with Chernobyl and whose cleanup will not take place in our lifetime.Through the stories of these six terrifying incidents, Plokhy explores the risks of nuclear power, both for military and peaceful purposes, while offering a vivid account of how individuals and governments make decisions under extraordinary circumstances. Today, there are 440 nuclear reactors operating throughout the world, with nuclear power providing 10 percent of global electricity. Yet as the world seeks to reduce carbon emissions to combat climate change, the question arises: Just how safe is nuclear energy?
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: How many pages does the book 'Atoms and Ashes' have? A: The book has three hundred sixty-eight pages. It provides a comprehensive exploration of nuclear disasters throughout history.
- Q: What are the dimensions of 'Atoms and Ashes'? A: The book measures six and a half inches in length, one point two inches in width, and nine point six one inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard hardcover size.
- Q: What type of binding does 'Atoms and Ashes' have? A: This book is bound in hardcover. Hardcover binding provides durability and a premium feel compared to paperback options.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Atoms and Ashes'? A: The author is Serhii Plokhy. He is well-known for his expertise in historical narratives, particularly regarding the Cold War.
- Q: What is the main focus of 'Atoms and Ashes'? A: The book focuses on the history and consequences of nuclear disasters. It covers six significant incidents that impacted public perception of nuclear energy.
- Q: Is 'Atoms and Ashes' suitable for young readers? A: The book is likely more suitable for adults and older teenagers. Its themes are complex and delve into historical nuclear events, which may be challenging for younger audiences.
- Q: How can I use this book for research? A: You can use 'Atoms and Ashes' as a reference for understanding nuclear history. It provides detailed accounts of various disasters, making it valuable for academic purposes.
- Q: What is the recommended reading level for 'Atoms and Ashes'? A: The book is best suited for readers at a high school level and above. Its in-depth analysis and historical context require some prior knowledge.
- Q: Can 'Atoms and Ashes' be used in educational settings? A: Yes, it can be used in educational settings. The book is a useful resource for courses on history, sociology, or environmental science.
- Q: How should I store 'Atoms and Ashes' to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book upright in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of the cover and pages.
- Q: Is there any special care needed for hardcover books like 'Atoms and Ashes'? A: No special care is generally needed, but handling the book with clean hands can help prevent dirt accumulation. Regular dusting is also recommended.
- Q: What if 'Atoms and Ashes' arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Many retailers have policies in place for damaged items.
- Q: Can I return 'Atoms and Ashes' if I don’t like it? A: Yes, you can typically return the book if you are unsatisfied, depending on the retailer’s return policy. Be sure to check their guidelines.
- Q: Does 'Atoms and Ashes' discuss modern nuclear safety? A: Yes, it touches on the risks and debates surrounding nuclear safety today. This includes discussions on current nuclear reactors and their role in energy production.
- Q: How does 'Atoms and Ashes' compare to other books on nuclear history? A: It provides a unique global perspective, focusing on multiple disasters rather than just one. This makes it stand out among other historical accounts.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'Atoms and Ashes'? A: The book explores themes of disaster, human decision-making under pressure, and the societal impact of nuclear energy. It provides a multifaceted view of nuclear history.