Nuclear and Solar Energy

Nuclear energy is released when an atom is divided or when two atoms are forced together. Solar energy is also a form of nuclear energy. This process occurs in the sun through fusion (joining an atom) reactions which turn hydrogen atoms into helium. The energy leaves the sun in the form of nuclear energy, and then turns into thermal energy as it leaves the sun. It eventually reaches the earth in the form of electromagnetic waves, which we call solar energy.

Example- When a nuclear bomb is set off, a large amount of nuclear energy is changed into heat energy quickly, creating an explosion. Another example would be the center of our earth. Heavy elements split apart (fission), creating energy.