Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is energy that comes from the center of atoms. Scientists learned that certain atoms can split apart in a process called fission. When that happens, they release a lot of heat. That heat can be used to boil water, make steam, and turn turbines that generate electricity.

A Powerful New Source of Energy

In the 1900s, scientists began learning much more about atoms. During World War II and after it, people discovered ways to control nuclear reactions. In 1954, the first nuclear power plant to send electricity to a power grid opened in the Soviet Union. After that, more countries built nuclear power stations.

How It Works

Inside a nuclear reactor, fuel such as uranium is used to create a controlled chain reaction. The heat from that reaction boils water into steam. The steam spins a turbine, and the turbine helps generate electricity. This part works a lot like other power stations, but the heat source is different.

Benefits and Challenges

Nuclear energy can produce a lot of electricity without burning coal or oil. But it also has serious challenges. Nuclear waste must be stored carefully, reactors must be kept safe, and accidents can be dangerous. That is why countries debate how much nuclear energy they should use.

Fun Facts

• A very small amount of nuclear fuel can release a huge amount of energy.
• Nuclear submarines and some spacecraft also use nuclear technology.
• Some countries rely on nuclear energy for a large part of their electricity.

Did You Know?

Nuclear power plants use steam turbines, so one important part of the process works in a similar way to older steam-powered machines.