Description: Nuclear energy refers to the energy released during nuclear fission or fusion processes. In fission, the nuclei of heavy atoms, such as uranium or plutonium, split into lighter nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the form of heat. In fusion, which occurs in the cores of stars, light nuclei, such as hydrogen, combine to form heavier nuclei, also releasing energy. This energy is primarily used for electricity generation in nuclear power plants, where the heat produced is converted into steam that drives generating turbines. In addition to electricity generation, nuclear energy has applications in medicine, such as in radiation therapy for cancer treatment, and in industry, where it is used in sterilization processes and material analysis. Nuclear energy is considered by some as a sustainable energy source, as it produces low greenhouse gas emissions during operation, although it poses challenges in terms of radioactive waste management and accident risks. Its development and use have been the subject of intense debates regarding safety, sustainability, and the future of energy in the context of climate change.
History: Nuclear energy began to develop in the early 20th century, with key discoveries such as nuclear fission in 1938 by Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann. During World War II, the Manhattan Project led to the creation of the first nuclear weapons. After the war, nuclear energy began to be explored as a civilian energy source, with the first commercial nuclear plant, Calder Hall, opened in the UK in 1956. Since then, nuclear energy has evolved, facing challenges such as accidents at nuclear plants, including Chernobyl in 1986 and Fukushima in 2011, which have influenced public perception and energy policies.
Uses: Nuclear energy is primarily used for electricity generation in nuclear power plants. It also has applications in medicine, such as in radiation therapy for cancer treatment, and in industry, where it is used in sterilization processes and material analysis. Additionally, it is used in scientific research and in the production of radioactive isotopes for various applications.
Examples: Examples of nuclear energy use include the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station in the United States, which is the largest nuclear power plant in the country, and the use of radioactive isotopes in cancer treatments, such as the use of Cobalt-60 in radiation therapy. Nuclear reactors are also used in submarines and aircraft carriers in various naval forces.
