# A nuclear power station uses uranium as fuel. Explain how the energy released from nuclear fission in the reactor core is ultimately used to generate electricity.

> WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales) — 3.6 Nuclear energy · Explain · 5 marks

> Nuclear power stations generate around 15% of the UK's electricity. The process involves several energy transfers before electrical energy is produced.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Uranium nucleus absorbs a neutron and splits (fission occurs), releasing energy
2. Energy released heats a coolant/water in the reactor core
3. Hot coolant/steam is used to drive a turbine
4. Turbine drives/turns a generator
5. Generator produces/outputs electrical energy

## Key terms

- [nuclear fission](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/nuclear-fission)

## Related

- [Revision notes for WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-nuclear-power-station-uses-uranium-2c261a68) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.