What is Nuclear Energy: Key Facts, Sources and Benefits Explained for Kids

Nuclear energy is among one of the safest low-carbon energy sources that comes from the core of an atom. Increase in energy consumption has led to demand for natural energy sources that are good for sustenance and progress of our world. We’re using energy constantly to power our homes, offices, industries and transportation. Nuclear-energy is a safe source of natural energy which contributes to around 10% of the world’s energy supply. Uranium, zirconium and thorium are some of the metals used for producing nuclear energy. It helps in lowering the demand of fossil fuels and emission of harmful gases due to their combustion. Let’s learn more about nuclear energy, its source, uses and benefits for us.

Table of Contents

• What is Nuclear Energy
• Nuclear Fission
• Nuclear Fusion
• Uses of Nuclear Energy
• Benefits of Nuclear Energy

What is Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is the energy in the core of an atom. Everything around us is made up of tiny particles. An atom is the smallest particle that constitutes all matter present in the world. The atoms are made up of subatomic particles called protons and neutrons. This energy is produced in two ways, nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. When the atom splits into subatomic particles it gives out energy. This process of releasing energy is called nuclear fission. Nuclear energy is also produced when the atoms fuse together, such as in the case of the sun. The sun releases energy when hydrogen atoms join together. This is called nuclear fusion. Let’s understand both processes in which nuclear energy is released: 

Nuclear Fission

Nuclear fission energy is harnessed in nuclear power plants to create electricity. In this process the nucleus of a heavy atom is split into nuclei releasing immense energy to spin turbines, heat water or produce steam for generating electricity.

Nuclear Fusion

When two nuclei fuse together to form a nucleus it is called nuclear fusion. It is the same process that enables the sun and other stars to produce their energy. This method of generating nuclear energy is not yet commercially available and is actively being researched by different countries.

Use of Nuclear Energy

Medical Treatments: Nuclear energy is used in the medical field for diagnostics, organ imaging (PETs scan), sterilising medical equipment and treating cancer.

Generating Electricity: Nuclear power plants use a fission process that releases heat energy to generate steam and spin turbines for producing electricity.

Space Exploration: Space exploration projects can be powered by electricity produced with nuclear energy. It is a reliable source of energy to produce electricity that can run 24/7 for years and it is independent of weather conditions. 

Industrial Application: Nuclear energy is used for monitoring industrial processes and inspecting material.

Weapons: Nuclear weapons are highly dangerous as they can cause enormous explosions leading to massive destruction. 

Benefits of Nuclear Energy

• Nuclear energy is a highly efficient source that can produce enormous amounts of electricity. 
• It is a clean energy source that is good for the environment as it emits zero to very low greenhouse gases.
• This energy has no dependency on weather and works continuously.
• The amount of resources required like land for a nuclear plant is low as compared to solar farms.
• Fuel such as uranium lasts a very long time, giving the most value of even a small amount.
• It is a highly reliable and stable source of producing energy.