Definition

1. Noun:
   • Nuclear energy used for electricity generation: "Atomic power" refers specifically to the energy released from atomic nuclei, primarily through nuclear fission, that is harnessed to produce electricity for civilian, grid-based use.

Usage

• The term "atomic power" is used to discuss the generation of electricity for public consumption. It is often used in contexts related to energy policy, technology, and infrastructure.
• It is a formal and technical term. In everyday language, "nuclear power" is more common.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The country invested heavily in atomic power to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
  • The debate over the safety of atomic power continues.
  • This facility generates atomic power for the entire region.

Advanced Usage

• "the dawn of the atomic power age": refers to the historical period when nuclear energy began to be used for electricity generation.
  • The mid-20th century marked the dawn of the atomic power age.

Variants and Related Words

• Nuclear power (n): A more common synonym for "atomic power," referring to the same concept of electricity generation from nuclear reactions.
• Atomic energy (n): A broader term that can refer to the energy released from atomic nuclei, which includes but is not limited to power generation (e.g., it can also refer to energy for propulsion or weapons).
• Fission (n): The specific nuclear reaction (splitting of atoms) that is used in most atomic power plants.

Synonyms

• Nuclear energy (when referring to its use for electricity).
• Nuclear power.

Notes on Meaning

• "Atomic power" specifically denotes the of nuclear physics for practical, civilian energy production. It is distinct from terms like "atomic bomb" or "nuclear weapons," which refer to military applications.
• The phrase emphasizes the source of the power (the atom) rather than just the output (electricity).

Noun

1. nuclear energy regarded as a source of electricity for the power grid (for civilian use)