Nuclear Energy King

Question 1

What are the key components of Fission Reactor Design?

Answer 1

1. Initiator
2. Moderators
3. Control Rods
4. Fuel

Question 2

Describe the initiator in the fission reactor.

Answer 2

(1,0)n needed to start reaction
Used with Be or Po (or other α-emitter, e.g. He)
(9,4)Be + (4,2)He => (12,6)C + (1,0)n

Question 3

What are moderators in the fission reactor? Give 4 examples.

Answer 3

Materials that slow down energetic neutrons.
1. H2O
2. D2O
3. Paraffin
4. Graphite

Question 4

What are control rods in the fission reactor, and give 2 operations?

Answer 4

Materials made of metal that are higly efficient in absorbing neutrons, e.g. boron or cadmium
(10,5)B + (1,0)n => (7,3)C + (4,2)He

1. Regulates number of chain carriers (neutrons) in core
2. Maintains controlled nuclear reactor operation

Question 5

Describe the fuel in the fission reactor.

Answer 5

Uranium fuel must be enriched to >3% (235)U
U = the most desirable nuclide for energy release in fission.