How does an electric power generator in a nuclear plant primarily generate electricity?

In a nuclear power plant, electricity generation primarily relies on thermal energy produced during the process of nuclear fission. When uranium atoms undergo fission, they break apart and release a significant amount of energy in the form of heat. This heat is used to boil water, producing steam. The steam is then directed towards turbines, which spin and drive generators to convert the mechanical energy into electrical energy.

The process of using thermal energy to produce steam is central to the operation of a nuclear power generator. While radioactive decay does produce particles and energy, the key mechanism for generating electricity in this context is not the direct flow of electrons or particles, but rather the heat generated from the fission reaction. The steam produced by this heat is what ultimately turns the turbine, facilitating the generation of electricity.