Nuclear reactors are devices used to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction, primarily for electricity generation or research purposes. They operate on the principle of nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process.

Nuclear Reactors

Nuclear reactors

A nuclear chain reaction occurs when a nuclear reaction causes additional reactions, leading to a self-sustaining series of reactions. This process is fundamental to both nuclear power generation and nuclear weapons, where it is carefully controlled or rapidly accelerated, respectively.

nuclear chain reaction

Electricity generation is the process of converting various forms of energy, such as kinetic, thermal, or chemical, into electrical energy through the use of power plants and generators. This process is critical for powering homes, industries, and infrastructure, making it a cornerstone of modern society and economic development.

electricity generation

research purposes

Nuclear fission is a process where the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy. This reaction is the principle behind both nuclear power generation and atomic weapons, with its energy release stemming from the conversion of mass into energy as described by Einstein's mass-energy equivalence principle.

nuclear fission

nucleus of an atom

Energy release refers to the process by which energy is emitted, often as heat or light, during a physical or chemical transformation. This phenomenon is fundamental to many natural and technological processes, including combustion, nuclear reactions, and metabolic pathways.

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