Nuclear Fission Flashcards
1
Q
What is nuclear fission?
A
When a stable isotope is struck by a neutron. The isotope absorbs the neutron becoming unstable and then splits apart releasing large amounts of energy and 2 neutrons
2
Q
What two elements are usually involved in nuclear fission
A
Uranium 235
Plutonium 239
3
Q
What does the fuel rod do in nuclear fission
A
Contains enriched uranium 235
4
Q
What does the moderator do in nuclear fission
A
Uses cool water or graphite to slow down nuclear fission
5
Q
What does the coolant do in nuclear fission
A
Goes into he moderator and flows around the core transferring heat away from the fuel to make steam
6
Q
What does the control rods do in nuclear fission
A
Absorbs neutrons and slows down the chain reaction to make it less dangerous
