The energy of atoms and molecules is the subject of chemistry. Nuclear physics and nuclear energy derive from the behaviour of the nucleus of the atom, particularly the ability of some nuclei (Uranium 235 and Plutonium 239) to fission and release energy.
Yes, radioactive decay results in the release of nuclear energy. The radioactive decay of an atom is the result of changes in the atom's nucleus, so energy released will be nuclear energy by definition.
Nuclear energy
nuclear energy
Other names for nuclear energy include atomic energy, nuclear power, and atomic power.
nuclear energy
nuclear energy
The source of atomic energy is the "binding energy" that exists in the nucleus of all atoms. This is the energy that is contained in the union of the protons and neutrons of the nucleus. When the nucleus is split apart, the binding energy is released.
Atomic energy is the energy released from splitting (nuclear fission) or combining (nuclear fusion) atoms. It is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity and in nuclear weapons for explosive purposes. The use of atomic energy has both benefits, such as providing a relatively clean energy source, and concerns, such as nuclear accidents and nuclear proliferation.
Atomic energy is really a misnomer for nuclear energy. It is the fissioning of the nucleus which causes energy to be released. At the atomic level we are dealing with chemical reactions, but in the early days people did talk of atomic power and atomic bombs.
Nuclear Energy
It gets its energy from the atomic nucleus.
Atomic energy? If you're talking about chemical energy (from the bonds between atoms) then anything on fire is an example. If you're talking about nuclear energy (from the nucleus in an atom) , that can be found in nuclear power plants or in the sun. There aren't really any everyday examples of nuclear energy because it takes a great deal of energy to manipulate atomic nuclei. Radioactive decay is another example of nuclear energy. So are cosmic rays that strike earth's atmosphere (mostly protons).