Question

How is nuclear energy used to generate electricity?
(7 Points)

A. Water is heated by magma close to Earth’s core.

B. Heat is released that produces steam then turns a generator.

C. Light energy is released that is absorbed by photoelectric cells.

D. Electrons in atoms are made to move through conducting wires.

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

**B. Heat is released that produces steam then turns a generator.**

Here's a more detailed explanation of how nuclear energy is used to generate electricity:

1. **Nuclear Fission**: In a nuclear reactor, uranium or plutonium atoms undergo fission, a process where the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts. This reaction releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat.

2. **Heat Generation**: The heat produced from fission is used to heat water in the reactor core.

3. **Steam Production**: The heated water becomes steam, which is then directed to turbines.

4. **Turbine Rotation**: The high-pressure steam turns the blades of a turbine, converting the thermal energy into mechanical energy.

5. **Electric Generator**: The turbine is connected to a generator; as the turbine spins, it turns the generator, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

6. **Cooling System**: After passing through the turbine, the steam is cooled back into water, often in a cooling tower, and the process can be repeated.

7. **Electricity Distribution**: The generated electricity is then sent through power lines to homes and businesses.

This process captures the energy produced from nuclear reactions and converts it into electricity for use.