Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear fission or fusion, particularly when used to generate electricity. It involves the nucleus of an atom, which is the central part composed of protons and neutrons. In nuclear fission, heavy atomic nuclei, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, are split into lighter nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy, along with additional neutrons that can cause further fission reactions in a chain reaction. In fusion, light atomic nuclei, like hydrogen isotopes, are combined under extreme pressure and temperature, producing energy and forming heavier nuclei, such as helium. This process powers the sun and other stars.
Nuclear energy is harnessed in nuclear power plants to produce electricity, and it plays a significant role in energy policy and climate discussions due to its potential to produce large amounts of energy with low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. However, it also raises concerns regarding radioactive waste disposal, nuclear accidents, and the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
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