Nuclear energy

Definition

Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear fission or fusion, especially when used to generate electricity. It involves the conversion of mass into energy according to Einstein's equation $E=mc^2$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nuclear fission occurs when a heavy nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy.
2. Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, also releasing energy.
3. The conservation of energy principle applies in nuclear reactions: the total mass-energy before and after the reaction remains constant.
4. Nuclear power plants utilize controlled nuclear fission reactions to produce electricity.
5. The byproducts of nuclear fission can include radioactive isotopes, which pose challenges for waste disposal and environmental safety.

Review Questions

• What are the two main types of nuclear reactions that release energy?
• Explain how the conservation of energy principle applies to nuclear reactions.
• $E=mc^2$ is crucial in understanding nuclear energy. What do each of these variables represent?

Related terms

Fission:

A nuclear reaction in which a heavy atomic nucleus splits into smaller nuclei with the release of energy.

Fusion:

A nuclear reaction where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.

$E=mc^2$:

$Einstein\'s$ equation indicating that mass can be converted into energy and vice versa.