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START WITH THE ATOM.
Nuclear science can sound complex. Here is a plain-language starting point for how a reactor makes electricity and where nuclear technology is used.
SMALL PARTICLES. USEFUL ENERGY.
In nuclear fission, the nucleus of an atom splits and releases energy as heat. In a power reactor, that process is carefully controlled. The heat is used to make steam, which turns a turbine connected to a generator.
The turbine and generator are familiar pieces of electricity production. The nuclear reactor provides the heat.
Read the DOE explanationFOLLOW THE ENERGY
Inside the core
Fuel assemblies hold material such as uranium inside the reactor core.
A simplified explanation of commercial nuclear power. Reactor designs differ.
FISSION AND FUSION.
Both involve atomic nuclei, but they work in different ways and are at different stages of use for electricity.
Fission
Splits heavy atomic nuclei. It is the process used in today’s commercial nuclear power plants.
Fusion
Combines light nuclei. Scientists and companies are working to develop practical fusion energy systems.
NUCLEAR TOUCHES MORE THAN THE GRID.
Nuclear materials and expertise serve a range of applications, each with its own technologies and safeguards.
Medical care
Radioisotopes and radiation are used in imaging, cancer treatment, and sterilization.
Industry & science
Researchers and manufacturers use nuclear methods to inspect materials and study systems.
National missions
Federal facilities apply nuclear expertise to security, cleanup, and other specialized work.
Learn more: U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Uses of Radiation.
KEEP ASKING GOOD QUESTIONS.
Understanding nuclear also means understanding fuel, safety, oversight, and the limits of what each technology can do.
What happens to used nuclear fuel?
After removal from a reactor, used fuel is stored and managed under strict requirements. In the United States, it is initially cooled in pools and may later be moved to specially designed dry storage systems. Learn from the NRC.
Who oversees commercial reactor safety?
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission licenses and oversees commercial nuclear power reactors and other civilian nuclear facilities. Explore NRC oversight.
Is nuclear only about power plants?
No. Nuclear science and radioactive materials are also used in medicine, research, industry, and other applications. Each use has distinct processes and rules. See examples from the NRC.
FURTHER READING
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