Nate Hagens defines 'nuclear fuel' as a concentrated source of energy derived from fissile materials like uranium-235 or plutonium-239, which power nuclear reactors through a process called fission. He emphasizes that nuclear fuel harnesses the immense energy released when atomic nuclei are split, converting it into thermal energy that can be used to generate electricity. Nate points out the intricate connections between nuclear fuel and broader system dynamics, noting its high energy return on investment (EROI) compared to some fossil fuels but also highlighting the significant challenges it poses, such as radioactive waste disposal, potential for catastrophic accidents, and geopolitical concerns over nuclear proliferation. In his view, while nuclear fuel contributes to the complex tapestry of energy sources that underpin modern civilization, it also demands careful stewardship and thorough consideration of its long-term ecological and societal impacts.

See also: nuclear power, nuclear weapon, fossil energy, nuclear exchange, fossil carbon