Atoms carry energy, often known as atomic energy or energy of atoms. These could include nuclear reactions, radioactive decay, etc.
The radioactive element uranium is found in nature and undergoes nuclear decay to form other elements.
It releases an "alpha particle" that is the nucleus of a helium atom.
Its radioactivity can be used to generate nuclear power using techniques that scientists have successfully developed, which could help to meet the world's energy needs.
The atom's nucleus is made up of neutrons and protons. An atom's nucleus splits (fission) in two when it contacts a traveling neutron, and releases energy in the form of heat as well as two or three more neutrons.
A fission "chain reaction" can be produced if enough of these ejected neutrons split the nuclei of another, releasing more neutrons.
However, in a nuclear power plant, the fission of uranium atoms replaces burning coal or gas.
The uranium fuel is put together in a nuclear reactor so that a regulated fission chain reaction can occur.
By splitting the atoms, heat is produced. This heat is then utilized to create steam, which spins a turbine and powers an electricity-generating generator.
Therefore, atomic energy is obtained by using the ores of uranium.