Nuclear reactions in a reactor produce a lot of thermal energy. That energy then flows and warms up water, which boils and produces steam. The steam then turns turbines that generate electricity.

Question

Which statement below can be made about the production of electricity in a nuclear reactor?

Heat flows in the form of electricity.
Heat flows from the reactor to the water.
The water produces heat.
The steam produces heat.

Answer 1

The correct statement about the production of electricity in a nuclear reactor is:

Heat flows from the reactor to the water.

In a nuclear reactor, the nuclear reactions produce thermal energy, which is transferred to the coolant (usually water). This water then absorbs the heat, boils, and produces steam that drives turbines to generate electricity.