Question

what is the sequence of energy transformations that occur in a nuclear reactor?
○ nuclear energy → mechanical energy → thermal energy → electrical energy
○ nuclear energy → thermal energy → mechanical energy → electrical energy
○ thermal energy → nuclear energy → mechanical energy → electrical energy
○ electrical energy → thermal energy → mechanical energy → nuclear energy

Explanation:

In a nuclear reactor, nuclear fission reactions release nuclear energy. This nuclear energy is first converted into thermal energy (heat) as the reactor core heats up. The thermal energy is then used to produce steam, which drives turbines (converting thermal energy to mechanical energy). Finally, the mechanical energy of the turbines is used to generate electrical energy via generators. So the correct sequence is nuclear energy → thermal energy → mechanical energy → electrical energy.

Answer:

nuclear energy → thermal energy → mechanical energy → electrical energy (the second option among the given choices)