nuclear energy
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nuclear energy
Energy that is released through the fission or fusion of atomic nuclei and is used mainly to generate electricity in nuclear power plants.
Die Nutzung der Kernenergie ist wegen der Risiken und der Entsorgung des Atommülls umstritten.
The use of nuclear energy is controversial because of the risks and the disposal of nuclear waste.
The word consists of 'Kern' (nucleus/core) and 'Energie' (energy). Here, 'Kern' refers to the 'Atomkern' (atomic nucleus). So 'Kernenergie' (nuclear energy) is the energy obtained from atomic nuclei.
Die Forschung zur Kernenergie begann Mitte des 20. Jahrhunderts.
Research into nuclear energy began in the middle of the 20th century.
In German, the word is often connected with political debates. Common phrases are 'die Nutzung der Kernenergie' (the use of nuclear energy), 'aus der Kernenergie aussteigen' (to phase out nuclear energy), or 'Gegner/Befürworter der Kernenergie' (opponents/supporters of nuclear energy).
Deutschland hat beschlossen, aus der Kernenergie auszusteigen.
Germany decided to phase out nuclear energy.
'Kernenergie' (nuclear energy) is a technical term from physics and engineering, but it is also very common in general written language, especially in news reports and political discussions.
In der Schule lernen wir über die Vor- und Nachteile der Kernenergie.
At school, we're learning about the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy.
nuclear power
Atomkraft and Kernenergie can both refer to the energy from atomic nuclei that is used technologically. Kernenergie usually sounds more neutral in factual language, while Atomkraft is particularly common in political and public debates. Kernenergie is more suitable for neutral information, while Atomkraft is also idiomatic in a public discussion.
Der Bericht erklärt sachlich, wie Kernenergie zur Stromerzeugung genutzt wird.
The report explains objectively how nuclear energy is used to generate electricity.
Bei der Demonstration diskutierten die Menschen über die Zukunft der Atomkraft.
At the demonstration, people discussed the future of nuclear power.
