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Nuclear energy is a way to generate
heat using the fission process of atoms. A nuclear power plant converts
the heat into electricity. |
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The main difference between a nuclear power plant and other kinds of power
plants (coal, oil, gas) is that at a nuclear power plant, the heat used
to make the steam is produced by fissioning atoms. |
Fission is the splitting of atoms into smaller pieces, caused by neutrons
hitting each other. These smaller pieces strike other atoms, releasing energy.
When this process continues, it is called a chain reaction. |
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When uranium - a nuclear material - is used as fuel in a nuclear power
plant, the fission process creates heat, which boils the water, creating
steam. The steam turns a turbine which is connected to a generator.
As the turbine spins, the generator turns, and its magnetic field produces
electricity. The electricity can then be carried to your home, so you
can do your homework on your computer, watch television, play video games,
have a snack from your refrigerator, and make toast. |
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulates nuclear power
plants and the use of nuclear materials in the United States to protect
public health and safety and the environment. The NRC issues licenses
for the use of nuclear material, then inspects those users to make sure
they follow our rules for safety.
DID YOU KNOW?
Nuclear materials are used for many other things besides nuclear power
- In nuclear medicine to detect and treat certain illnesses
- To perform research at universities
- In industry, to locate cracks in steel and eliminate dust from film
and compact discs
- To measure the amount of glue on a postage stamp and the amount of
air whipped into ice cream, and for many other things
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