Nuclear power

Nuclear power is the use of nuclear reactions to produce energy, most commonly electricity.

Nuclear power is the use of nuclear reactions to produce energy, most commonly electricity. In commercial practice, it is usually generated by controlled nuclear fission in reactors, where heat from splitting heavy atomic nuclei is used to make steam that drives turbines. Nuclear power is also associated with low-carbon electricity generation, though it raises issues such as radioactive waste management and safety.

Definition and process

Nuclear power refers to energy produced from nuclear reactions, usually the fission of heavy atomic nuclei. In power stations, this heat is converted into steam that drives turbines and generators to produce electricity.

Technology and reactors

Commercial nuclear power plants are built around nuclear reactors that sustain controlled chain reactions. Common reactor types include pressurized water reactors and boiling water reactors.

History

The development of nuclear power followed early research into radioactivity and nuclear physics. The first electricity from a nuclear reactor was generated in 1951, and the first grid-connected nuclear power plant began operating in 1954.

Benefits and concerns

Nuclear power is valued for producing large amounts of electricity with low direct greenhouse-gas emissions. It also involves challenges such as radioactive waste management, accident risk, decommissioning, and public policy debate.

Global use

Nuclear power is used in many countries and supplies a meaningful share of world electricity. Its role varies by country, with some states relying heavily on it for baseload electricity and others using little or none.