nuclear energy

American  

[noo-klee-er en-er-jee, nyoo-] / ˈnu kli ər ˈɛn ər dʒi, ˈnyu- /

noun

1. energy released by reactions within atomic nuclei, as in nuclear fission or fusion.

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nuclear energy British  

noun

1. Also called: atomic energy.  energy released during a nuclear reaction as a result of fission or fusion

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nuclear energy Scientific  

1. The energy released by the nucleus of an atom as the result of nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, or radioactive decay. The amount of energy released by the nuclear fission of a given mass of uranium is about 2,500,000 times greater than that released by the combustion of an equal mass of carbon. And the amount of energy released by the nuclear fusion of a given mass of deuterium is about 400 times greater that that released by the nuclear fission of an equal mass of uranium.

2. Also called atomic energy

3. Electricity generated by a nuclear reactor.

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nuclear energy Cultural  

1. Energy obtained from nuclear reactions.

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Pronunciation

See nuclear ( def. ).

Etymology

Origin of nuclear energy

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Adding more nuclear energy to the mix of natural gas, solar and wind to deal with rising energy demands due to AI, EV, advanced manufacturing, electrification and precious metals refining.

From MarketWatch

They said they had uncovered an extensive scheme to take kickbacks and influence state-owned companies including state nuclear energy firm Enerhoatom.

From BBC

In December, it overhauled its nuclear sector to allow for private investment and rolled back a liability law that had held back U.S. firms from pursuing nuclear energy deals in the country.

From The Wall Street Journal

When the turbines fell silent at Wylfa exactly ten years ago today, Wales lost its last source of nuclear energy.

From BBC

The idea of powering commercial ships with nuclear energy has been talked about for decades, but has never moved forward because of costs and safety concerns.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• atomic energy
• nuclear power