The energy released during a nuclear reaction in a power plant is directly used to __________.
energize control rods
heat water
create electric current
fuse hydrogen into helium
please help
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the process of generating electricity in a nuclear power plant. Here's an explanation:
In a nuclear power plant, the energy released during a nuclear reaction is used to heat water and produce steam. This steam then rotates a turbine, which is connected to a generator. The spinning turbine generates mechanical energy, which is converted into electrical energy by the generator. This electrical energy is then transmitted and distributed to homes and industries.
Now, let's go through the given options:
1. Energize control rods: Control rods are used to control the rate of the nuclear reaction by absorbing or inserting neutrons. While control rods are crucial for ensuring a controlled chain reaction, they are not directly involved in generating electricity.
2. Heat water: This is correct. As mentioned earlier, the energy released during a nuclear reaction heats water to produce steam, which is the primary step in generating electricity in a nuclear power plant.
3. Create electric current: This is also correct. The steam produced by heating water in a nuclear power plant drives a turbine connected to a generator, which produces electric current.
4. Fuse hydrogen into helium: Nuclear fusion is the process of combining atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. While nuclear fusion is a highly desirable reaction for its potential to generate enormous amounts of energy, it is not the primary method used in current nuclear power plants.
Therefore, the correct answer is: The energy released during a nuclear reaction in a power plant is directly used to heat water and create electric current.