Control rods
Definition
Control rods are devices made from materials like boron or cadmium that absorb neutrons and regulate the rate of fission reactions within a nuclear reactor. By inserting or withdrawing control rods, operators can control the power output and prevent overheating.
Analogy
Think of control rods as brakes on a car. When you press the brakes, they absorb some of the kinetic energy and slow down the car. Similarly, control rods absorb neutrons and slow down or stop the chain reaction inside a reactor.
Related terms
Moderator: A substance (like water or graphite) used in a reactor to slow down fast-moving neutrons so they can cause more fission reactions.
Meltdown: A severe accident in which excessive heat causes fuel rods to overheat and melt inside a nuclear reactor.
Criticality: The state at which there is just enough neutron multiplication to sustain a self-sustaining chain reaction without any increase or decrease in power level.
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