Nuclear power is a form of energy released from the nucleus, the core of atoms, made up of protons and neutrons. This energy can be produced through nuclear fission, where nuclei of atoms split into several parts, or nuclear fusion, where nuclei fuse together. Nuclear power is used to generate electricity, and it has been a significant source of energy, supplying about 20% of annual U.S. electricity generation since 1990
. Most nuclear power plants use uranium as their fuel for the process of nuclear fission, which releases enormous energy in the form of heat and radiation
. The electricity is generated by boiling water through the heat from fission, creating steam to turn a turbine, which then produces electricity
. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulates nuclear power plants to ensure their safety for the environment and people
