Nuclear Power

Nuclear power is a form of energy production that utilizes nuclear reactions to generate heat, which is then used to produce electricity. The most common process for generating nuclear power involves nuclear fission, where the nuclei of heavy atoms, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, are split into smaller particles when bombarded with neutrons. This splitting releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat.

In a nuclear power plant, the heat produced from fission is used to convert water into steam, which drives turbines connected to electricity generators. Nuclear power is noted for its ability to produce large amounts of energy with relatively low greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making it a significant player in discussions about sustainable energy sources and climate change mitigation.

The operation of nuclear power plants also requires stringent safety measures and regulations to prevent accidents and manage radioactive waste, which remains hazardous for thousands of years. This has spurred debates on the safety, environmental impact, and long-term viability of nuclear energy compared to other energy sources.