What is a nuclear generator?

Nuclear generators provide a huge amount of energy by means of nuclear fission. Controlled fission reactions in which Uranium-238 with small percentages of U-235, or plutonium are bombarded with neutrons. When a neutron is absorbed by the fissionable material, it becomes unstable, releasing large amounts of energy as it splits into two smaller nuclei. In order to keep the reaction going, there has to be enough of the fissionable material, or critical mass. Coolant is sent through the reactor chamber, absorbing this heat energy, and creates steam. The steam turns turbines connected to a copper generator which, when turned, strips the copper of its electrons and sends them as electricity through the electrical wires and to your homes. Waste is an issue with nuclear reactors, as it is radioactive and can cause damage to men and the environment, however what scientists usually do is bury it miles below the earth's surface as it lives out its half-lives into a small enough amount that is safe. However, the amount of waste produced is significantly lower than coal powered plants, and does not pollute the air.