Nuclear Power and the Environment

Nuclear power refers to the use of nuclear reactions to generate electricity. This process primarily involves nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom (often uranium-235 or plutonium-239) is split into smaller parts, releasing a substantial amount of energy. This energy is used to heat water, produce steam, and drive turbines that generate electricity. ### Key Components of Nuclear Power: 1. **Nuclear Reactor**: The core of a nuclear power plant where fission occurs.