nuclear reactor

noun Physics.

1. reactor(def 4).

noun

1. a device in which a nuclear reaction is maintained and controlled for the production of nuclear energySometimes shortened to: reactor Former name: atomic pile See also fission reactor, fusion reactor

1. A device used to generate power, in which nuclear fission takes place as a controlled chain reaction, producing heat energy that is generally used to drive turbines and provide electric power. Nuclear reactors are used as a source of power in large power grids and in submarines.

A device in which the energy released by the fission of nuclei of uranium or another element is used to produce steam to run an electrical generator or other device.