The correct term for splitting an atom to release nuclear energy is "nuclear fission." Nuclear fission is the process in which the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei along with the release of a large amount of energy. This process is commonly used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.
Here's a brief overview of the process of nuclear fission:
1. A heavy nucleus, such as uranium-235, absorbs a neutron.
2. This absorption causes the nucleus to become unstable and split into two or more smaller nuclei, along with the release of additional neutrons.
3. These released neutrons can then go on to collide with other uranium nuclei, causing a chain reaction.
4. The energy released during this process is harnessed to generate heat, which is then used to produce electricity through turbines.
Overall, nuclear fission plays a significant role in generating electricity in nuclear power plants and is a key process in the production of nuclear energy.
