Nuclear Reactor - GCSE Physics Definition

A nuclear reactor is a device used to produce energy through a process called nuclear fission. Inside the reactor, atoms of a heavy element, usually uranium, decay and split apart to release a large amount of energy in the form of heat. This heat is used to produce steam, which then drives turbines to generate electricity. To control the reaction and keep it safe, nuclear reactors use materials called control rods that absorb some of the particles to regulate the rate of nuclear fission. The whole process takes place inside a strong, secure container to prevent any radiation from escaping. Nuclear reactors are an important way of generating electricity without producing carbon emissions, but they need to be carefully managed to avoid risks of accidents.