Nuclear power plant (source code)

= Nuclear power plant

A <nuclear power plant> converts <energy> from controlled <nuclear fission> into electrical <energy>. A <nuclear reactor> produces <heat>; a coolant carries it to the working cycle; a <turbine> drives an <electrical generator>. A <pressurized water reactor> transfers heat to a separate steam circuit, whereas a <boiling water reactor> generates <steam> in the reactor vessel.<Nuclear 101: How Does a Nuclear Reactor Work? by the United States Department of Energy>[Nuclear fission creates heat; PWR and BWR designs]{ref}

If thermal input is $P_{\rm th}$ and conversion efficiency is $\eta$, gross electrical output is approximately $\eta P_{\rm th}$; the remaining thermal power must be rejected. The plant also needs its own electrical supply, so gross output differs from net export. After the chain reaction stops, <decay heat> still requires removal.