Nuclear Technology

NUCLEAR POWERS

What is Nuclear Power?

Nuclear power can be described as power that is produced or generated from a series of controlled explosions. These explosions or energy is caused when the nucleus of an element is divided into two lighter elements. Typically, the energy that is produced by these explosions creates pressurized steam that is then transferred to a turbine engine.

How does it Work?

The division of an atom is referred to as nuclear fission. During the nuclear fission process, the neutron, also referred to as the neutral or uncharged particle of an atom, is combined with the nucleus, or center, of an uranium atom. The two particles that are produced both contain a nucleus with half of the positive and negative charges from the host nucleus. An abundance amount of heat, energy and radiation is produced when the nuclear fission process is initiated.

The significance of this process is the releasing of gamma rays, which are the neutrons of the fission. These neutrons have the ability to split other uranium cells, which will create more gamma rays and develop into a “chain reaction.” The controlled portion of this chain reaction can be used to produce electricity. The uncontrollable portion of this chain reaction is what is used to create weapons.

Why is it Needed?

Many nations create nuclear power to generate electricity to support both military and civilian lifestyles.

Who has Nuclear Capabilities?

What is the Axis of Evil?

References

Arms Control Association. (2009, December 01). Nuclear Weapons. Retrieved December 01, 2009, from

Armscontrol.org: http://www.armscontrol.org/factsheets/Nuclearweaponswhohaswhat

Blix, H., & Cha, V. (2009, November 11). Hans Blix Discusses North Korea's Nuclear Intentions. (C.

AMANPOUR, Interviewer)

Brain, M. (2009). How Nuclear Power Works. Retrieved November 29, 2009, from How Stuff...