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Analyse the data shown in Figure 7a and Figure 7b - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 5
Analyse the data shown in Figure 7a and Figure 7b. Figure 7a shows the amount of nuclear waste being stored at nuclear reactor sites in the USA in 2010. Figure 7b ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 7a and Figure 7b - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Figure 7a Analysis
Answer
Figure 7a indicates that the majority of nuclear waste is stored in the eastern United States, with only two states in the eastern half holding over 500 tons of waste. Illinois is highlighted for having the highest amount of nuclear waste, approximately 9000 tons, which is significantly more than the smallest amount recorded in Utah, with only 2 states exceeding 5000 tons. This leaves around 50% of the total waste stored in states with 1000 to 5000 tons.
Step 2
Figure 7b Analysis
Answer
Figure 7b provides insights into the nuclear energy usage and contributions to the Nuclear Waste Fund. Vermont, for example, has the highest percentage of electricity generated from nuclear power at 72.3%. In contrast, Maine, which generates the least amount from nuclear energy, collected roughly $315.1 million but does not produce any nuclear electricity.
The analysis indicates a relationship between the percentage of electricity generated from nuclear energy and the amounts collected in waste funds, notably with Illinois, which contributes the highest funds of about $550.9 million while generating substantial nuclear power.
Step 3
Connection Between Figures
Answer
A solid connection can be seen between the waste fund collected and the percentage of electricity generated by nuclear power. States with higher percentages, such as Vermont, also show greater financial contributions to the waste fund. Meanwhile, states like Maine exhibit minimal financial contributions despite having no nuclear energy production, thus emphasizing how the management of nuclear waste is directly linked to energy generation.