Radioactive waste is material that remains radioactive and hazardous after it has been used in various applications, such as nuclear power generation or medical treatments. This waste can come in different forms, including solids, liquids, and gases, and it contains unstable atoms that release radiation as they decay over time.
Proper management of radioactive waste is crucial to protect human health and the environment. It is typically stored in secure facilities designed to contain radiation and prevent contamination. The long-term disposal of this waste often involves deep geological repositories, where it can be isolated from people and ecosystems for thousands of years.