5 Questions
What is the purpose of using moderators like heavy water or graphite in nuclear reactors?
To control the chain reaction
What is the principle used in making an atom bomb?
Uncontrollable release of energy
What is the role of the neutrons formed during fusion in a nuclear reactor?
To produce steam for running electric turbines
What is the primary purpose of tapping nuclear energy in advanced countries?
To meet the growing demand for electric energy
What happens when one atom of Uranium undergoes fission?
It breaks down into smaller atoms
Study Notes
Nuclear Reactors and Fission
- Moderators like heavy water or graphite are used in nuclear reactors to slow down neutrons, increasing the chances of further fission reactions and sustaining a chain reaction.
- The principle used in making an atom bomb is a rapid, uncontrolled nuclear chain reaction, releasing a massive amount of energy in a short time.
Neutrons in Fusion Reactions
- Neutrons formed during fusion in a nuclear reactor are absorbed by the surrounding material, helping to regulate the reaction and prevent it from getting out of control.
Tapping Nuclear Energy
- The primary purpose of tapping nuclear energy in advanced countries is to generate electricity on a large scale, providing a reliable and clean source of power.
Uranium Fission
- When one atom of Uranium undergoes fission, it releases 2-3 neutrons, which then go on to collide with other uranium atoms, causing them to split and release more neutrons, thereby sustaining a chain reaction.
Learn about the principles of chain reactions, energy release, and control in the context of nuclear fission and fusion. Understand how neutrons are utilized to initiate and sustain the chain reaction, leading to the release of energy.
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