Tuumajõud

Tuumajõud is a term used primarily in Estonia to refer to the forces and energy derived from the nucleus of an atom. The literal translation, "nuclear force," can denote both the fundamental interaction that binds protons and neutrons together, and the practical applications of nuclear energy and nuclear weapons. In a nuclear energy context, tuumajõud refers to the power generated by the controlled fission of heavy atoms such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, which releases vast amounts of heat that is typically converted into electricity in nuclear power plants. Estonia has not built its own nuclear reactors but has studied the technology as part of its energy diversification strategy, with most of the country’s electricity coming from natural gas and renewables. The term is also used in discussions of nuclear weaponry; Estonia is a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and maintains a policy of nuclear disarmament. In energy planning, tuumajõud is considered for its high energy density and low atmospheric CO₂ emissions, though safety concerns, radioactive waste, and high upfront costs are significant barriers. The concept remains a topic of scientific and policy debate both within Estonia and internationally.