Nuclear reactor

Definition

A nuclear reactor is a device used to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction. It is commonly utilized for generating electricity and for various research purposes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nuclear reactors use fuel rods, typically made of uranium-235 or plutonium-239, to sustain the chain reaction.
2. Control rods made of materials like cadmium or boron are used to absorb neutrons and regulate the reaction rate.
3. Moderators such as water or graphite slow down fast neutrons, making the chain reaction more efficient.
4. The heat generated from the fission process in the reactor core is used to produce steam that drives turbines for electricity generation.
5. Nuclear reactors can produce both low-level and high-level radioactive waste that requires careful handling and disposal.

Review Questions

• What types of materials are commonly used as fuel in a nuclear reactor?
• How do control rods function within a nuclear reactor?
• Why are moderators essential in the operation of most nuclear reactors?

Related terms

Fission:

A nuclear reaction in which an atomic nucleus splits into smaller parts, releasing energy.

Radioactive Decay:

The process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation.

Chain Reaction: A self-sustaining sequence of reactions where the products of one reaction initiate further reactions.