You know that the atomic structure of an element consists of a nucleus with electrons circling around it which is quite similar to the solar system where the sun is like the nucleus and the planets are like the electrons. The nucleus of an atom is mainly comprised of two kinds of particles which are protons and neutrons. While the neutrons have no electric charge the protons are positively charged.
These particles are held together by some energy called the binding energy which is required otherwise the nucleus will fall apart. It is sent hat the nuclei of some of the heavier elements such as uranium can be broken if bombarded by high energy particles. In atomic reactors, bombardment is done by neutrons. The nuclei break up releasing the binding energy mainly in the form of heat. This is known as nucleus fission. The heat released is utilized to convert water into steam. The energy of the steam is used to rotate the turbo generator for producing electricity.
The atomic power station is similar to a coal based power station except that while the latter gets heat by burning in coal the atomic power station gets heat from nuclear reaction.
These particles are held together by some energy called the binding energy which is required otherwise the nucleus will fall apart. It is sent hat the nuclei of some of the heavier elements such as uranium can be broken if bombarded by high energy particles. In atomic reactors, bombardment is done by neutrons. The nuclei break up releasing the binding energy mainly in the form of heat. This is known as nucleus fission. The heat released is utilized to convert water into steam. The energy of the steam is used to rotate the turbo generator for producing electricity.
The atomic power station is similar to a coal based power station except that while the latter gets heat by burning in coal the atomic power station gets heat from nuclear reaction.
