Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is the energy that is released during a nuclear reaction, either through the process of nuclear fission or nuclear fusion. This energy is harnessed and used to generate electricity in nuclear power plants.

Nuclear Fission

Nuclear fission is the process in which the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of a large amount of energy. This process is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.

Nuclear Fusion

Nuclear fusion is the process in which two nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, accompanied by the release of energy. While nuclear fusion is the process that powers the sun and other stars, it has not yet been effectively utilized for electricity generation on Earth.

How Nuclear Power Plants Work

In a nuclear power plant, nuclear fission reactions are used to heat water and produce steam. The steam then drives turbines, which are connected to generators that produce electricity. The heat generated from the nuclear reactions is contained within the plant's reactor and used to produce steam, without the release of greenhouse gases or air pollutants.

Advantages of Nuclear Energy

• Produces large amounts of energy
• Does not produce greenhouse gases
• Reliable source of energy

Disadvantages of Nuclear Energy

• Generation of radioactive waste
• Potential for accidents and nuclear meltdown
• High initial cost of building nuclear power plants

Study Guide

1. What are the two processes involved in nuclear energy production? Answer: Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion
2. How is the energy from nuclear reactions utilized in nuclear power plants? Answer: The energy is used to heat water and produce steam, which then drives turbines to generate electricity.
3. List three advantages of nuclear energy. Answer: Produces large amounts of energy, does not produce greenhouse gases, reliable source of energy
4. What are the disadvantages of nuclear energy? Answer: Generation of radioactive waste, potential for accidents and nuclear meltdown, high initial cost of building nuclear power plants