Which process is used to generate nuclear power?

The generation of nuclear power primarily relies on the process of fission of atomic nuclei. In nuclear fission, heavy atomic nuclei, such as those of uranium-235 or plutonium-239, are split into two or more lighter nuclei along with the release of a large amount of energy. This energy release is due to the conversion of a small amount of mass into energy, as described by Einstein’s equation, E=mc².

When a nucleus undergoes fission, it not only releases energy but also emits additional neutrons, which can further induce fission in nearby nuclei, leading to a chain reaction. This chain reaction is precisely controlled in nuclear reactors to produce a steady output of energy used for electricity generation.

Other processes mentioned do not relate to the generation of nuclear power. For instance, while fusion, the process of combining light atomic nuclei (like hydrogen) to form heavier nuclei, does produce significant energy, it currently remains beyond our technical capability for large-scale power production. Electromagnetic induction is a principle used in generators and transformers, not in nuclear power generation. Thermal conduction is a method of heat transfer, unrelated to the nuclear reactions that produce power.