Energy Work

    NUCLEAR ENERGY

Nuclear energy is the energy contained in the nucleus of an atom. Atoms are the smallest particles in which a chemical element can be divided while maintaining its properties. In the nucleus of each atom there are two types of particles (neutrons and protons) that are held together. Nuclear energy is the energy that holds neutrons and protons together.

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Nuclear power can be used to produce electricity. But first the energy must be released. This energy can be obtained in two ways: nuclear fusion and nuclear fission. In nuclear fusion, energy is released when the nuclei of atoms are combined or fused together to form a larger nucleus. This is how the sun produces energy. In nuclear fission, the nuclei separate to form smaller nuclei, releasing energy. Nuclear power plants use nuclear fission to produce electricity.

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When one of these two nuclear reactions occurs (nuclear fission or nuclear fusion), atoms experience a slight loss of mass. This mass that is lost becomes a large amount of heat energy and radiation, as Albert Einstein discovered with his famous equation E'mc2. The heat energy produced is used to produce steam and generate electricity. Although the production of electrical energy is the most comon utility given to nuclear energy, it can also be applied to many other sectors, such as medical or environmental applications.

 

  

 LINCK: Nuclear energy