Atomic Nuclei and Nuclear power:

• Atomic nuclei are generally unstable, but some unstable elements emit radiation.

• Radioactive decay is the process of unstable nucleus emitting particles, causing it to decay into a different atom.

• Nuclear power was first pursued for electricity generation in the early 20th century due to the energy released by radioactive materials like radium uranium.

• Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion are two nuclear reactions that release significant amounts of energy.

• Uranium, an unstable element is used to as a fuel in nuclear power stations to produce energy for the national electricity grid.

The Koeberg Nuclear Power Station is located in Cape Town.