Simple Description

A type of power station that uses nuclear fission reactions to generate electricity.

Further Detail

In a nuclear power station the energy released from nuclear reactions is used to heat water and turn it into steam. The steam is then used to drive a turbine. The turbine is connected to a generator which then generates electricity. Nuclear power stations do not involve burning anything and, as such, do not contribute to global warming. However, they are expensive to build and decommision and, if an accident happens, can irradiate a large area of land.

Related Words:

• Boiler
• Turbine
• Generator
• Nuclear fission
• Non-renewable
• Uranium

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