What is Nuclear Energy? The Science of Nuclear Power What is nuclear fission? Nuclear fission is a reaction where the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, while releasing energy For instance, when hit by a neutron, the nucleus of an atom of uranium-235 splits into two smaller nuclei, for example a barium nucleus and a krypton nucleus and two or three neutrons
International Atomic Energy Agency | Atoms for Peace and Development The IAEA is the world's centre for cooperation in the nuclear field, promoting the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technology It works in a wide range of areas including energy generation, health, food and agriculture and environmental protection
Nuclear Technology Review 2025 The Nuclear Technology Review 2025 covers the following select areas: nuclear power, nuclear fuel cycle, decommissioning, environmental remediation and radioactive waste management, fusion research and technology development for future energy production, research reactors, particle accelerators and nuclear instrumentation, atomic and nuclear
Nuclear technology and applications | IAEA The IAEA assists its Member States in using nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes and facilitates the transfer of such technology and knowledge in a sustainable manner to Member States
Five Reasons the Clean Energy Transition Needs Nuclear Power Nuclear energy ranks among the cleanest power sources when assessed across its entire lifecycle Lifecycle analyses consider every stage — from uranium mining and fuel fabrication to plant construction, operation and decommissioning
Nuclear Explained - International Atomic Energy Agency The articles and videos on this page offer easy-to-understand explanations of major topics in nuclear science and technology The many peaceful uses of nuclear technology have a beneficial impact on our everyday lives – from energy production and food security to health care and the protection of
Nuclear Explained - Nuclear science | IAEA Nuclear science and technology are often used in the study and preservation of valuable cultural objects These objects include everything from paintings, clothing and musical instruments, to statues, arms and armour — even Egyptian mummies and an entire ancient wooden ship
Nuclear Power Reactors in the World | IAEA This is the 44th edition of Reference Data Series No 2, which presents the most recent reactor data available to the IAEA It contains summarized information as of the end of 2023 on power reactors operating, under construction and shut down as well as performance data on reactors operating in the IAEA Member States The information is collected through designated national correspondents in
Nuclear Explained - International Atomic Energy Agency Nuclear fusion is the process by which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a single heavier one while releasing massive amounts of energy Fusion reactions take place in a state of matter called plasma — a hot, charged gas made of positive ions and free-moving electrons with unique properties distinct from solids, liquids or gases
Nuclear fuel cycle | IAEA Sustainable nuclear power needs a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle The increasing use of nuclear power puts stringent demands on fuel cycle activities and on understanding the behaviour of materials used in nuclear reactors The IAEA assists its Member States with research and the sharing of experience and good practices