Noun

Singular nuclear power

Plural countable and uncountable; plural nuclear powers

nuclear power (countable and uncountable; plural nuclear powers)

1. (uncountable) Power, especially electrical power, obtained using nuclear fission or nuclear fusion
2. (countable) A nation that possesses nuclear weapons

Synonyms

• atomic power

Nuclear power is any nuclear technology designed to extract usable energy from atomic nuclei via controlled nuclear reactions. The only method in use today is through nuclear fission, though other methods might one day include nuclear fusion and radioactive decay (see below). All utility-scale reactors heat water to produce steam, which is then converted into mechanical work for the purpose of generating electricity or propulsion. In 2007, 14% of the world's electricity came from nuclear power. Also, more than 150 nuclear-powered naval vessels have been built, and a few radioisotope rockets have been produced. Nuclear power is a low carbon power source.