1.
nuclear power, atomic energy
Energy released by nuclear reactions, especially nuclear fission, used for generating electricity or other purposes.
COMPOSITION: 原子 (atom) + 力 (power). Literally "atomic power."
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 原子力発電 (nuclear power generation)
- 原子力発電所/原発 (nuclear power plant)
- 原子力規制委員会 (Nuclear Regulation Authority)
- 原子力の平和利用 (peaceful use of nuclear power)
- 原子力潜水艦 (nuclear submarine)
ABBREVIATION: 原発 is a common abbreviation for 原子力発電所.
JAPAN CONTEXT: Following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi accident, Japan's nuclear policy has been subject to significant debate. Key terms:
- 再稼働 (restart of nuclear plants)
- 廃炉 (decommissioning)
- 使用済み核燃料 (spent nuclear fuel)
RELATED TERMS: