Nuclear Physics Flashcards
1
Q
Explain what is meant by a chain reaction
A
Uranium captures a neutron, splitting into two daughter nuclei and releases more neutrons, which go on to cause more fissioning
2
Q
Explain purpose of the moderator in a thermal nuclear reactor
A
Slows fast moving neutrons so they can be absorbed by uranium (fuel)
3
Q
Explain why shielding around a nuclear core becomes radioactive
A
Neutrons from the core are absorbed by the atoms of the shielding, causing them to become unstable isotopes
