Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy comes from the middle of atoms. Atoms are the tiny building blocks of everything. The center of an atom is called the nucleus. When the nucleus is split, it releases a huge amount of energy.

How It Works

Scientists use a metal called uranium to make nuclear energy. In a power plant, uranium atoms are split apart. This releases heat, which boils water into steam. The steam spins turbines that make electricity. A small amount of uranium can power a whole city.

Good and Bad

Nuclear energy does not make smoke or pollute the air. It can make a lot of power from just a little fuel. But it also makes waste that stays dangerous for a long time. Scientists work hard to keep nuclear plants safe for people and nature.

Fun Facts

• The sun makes its energy using a kind of nuclear reaction.
• The first nuclear power plant opened in 1954 in Russia.
• About 10 percent of the world's electricity comes from nuclear power.

Did You Know?

One tiny uranium pellet can make as much energy as a whole ton of coal.