
pressurized water reactor (PWR)
A pressurized water reactor (PWR) is a type of nuclear power plant that generates electricity using nuclear fission. It uses water under high pressure to cool and regulate the reactor's core, preventing it from boiling even at high temperatures. The heated water flows through a primary circuit to a heat exchanger, where it transfers heat to a secondary water loop, producing steam that drives turbines to generate electricity. The high-pressure system ensures safe operation by keeping water in liquid form, allowing efficient heat transfer and containment of radioactive materials.