A nuclear reactor is a device to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction. Most commonly they are used for generating electricity and for the propulsion of ships. Usually heat from nuclear fission is passed to a working fluid (water or gas), which runs through turbines that power either ship's propellers or generators. Some produce isotopes for medical and industrial use, and some are run only for research.
Read more about Nuclear Reactor: How It Works, Early Reactors, Components, Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Safety, Accidents, Natural Nuclear Reactors
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—Adrienne Rich (b. 1929)