Nuclear power plants use uranium-235 as fuel. Each uranium-235 atom contains 92 protons and 143 neutrons. When a neutron is absorbed by a uranium-235 atom, it splits the nucleus into two smaller atoms, releasing energy in the form of heat and radiation. This process is known as nuclear fission.

The amount of uranium-235 needed to produce nuclear power depends on the type of reactor and the desired output. A typical nuclear power plant uses about 200 tons of uranium-235 per year to produce 1,000 megawatts of electricity.

Uranium-235 is a relatively rare isotope of uranium. It makes up only about 0.7% of natural uranium. The rest of natural uranium is uranium-238, which is not fissile. In order to use uranium-238 as fuel in a nuclear power plant, it must be converted into uranium-235. This process is known as uranium enrichment.

Uranium enrichment is a complex and expensive process. It requires the use of specialized equipment and materials. The cost of uranium enrichment can vary depending on the desired level of enrichment.

The amount of uranium-235 needed to produce nuclear power is also influenced by the efficiency of the reactor. Some reactors are more efficient than others at converting uranium-235 into energy. The most efficient reactors can use up to 35% of the uranium-235 in the fuel.

Nuclear power is a reliable and efficient source of energy. However, it is also a complex and expensive technology. The cost of uranium-235 is just one of the factors that must be considered when evaluating the feasibility of nuclear power.