The common point between the atomic bomb and the nuclear power plant is that they both harness the energy released by nuclear reactions. In an atomic bomb, the rapid release of energy from a chain reaction of nuclear fissions creates a powerful explosion. In a nuclear power plant, the controlled release of energy from nuclear fissions is used to generate heat, which is then used to produce steam that drives turbines and generate electricity. While both use nuclear reactions, the atomic bomb is designed for destructive purposes, while the nuclear power plant is used for generating electricity.