Breeder reactors

Definition

Breeder reactors are a type of nuclear reactor that generate more fissile material than they consume. They convert fertile isotopes like uranium-238 into fissile isotopes such as plutonium-239 through the process of neutron absorption and subsequent nuclear reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Breeder reactors can produce more fuel than they use, making them highly efficient.
2. They primarily use uranium-238 or thorium-232 as fertile material to produce plutonium-239 or uranium-233, respectively.
3. Fast breeder reactors operate with fast neutrons, unlike thermal reactors which use slow neutrons.
4. They play a significant role in reducing nuclear waste by transmuting long-lived actinides into shorter-lived fission products.
5. Breeder reactors have significant potential for extending the supply of nuclear fuel resources.

Review Questions

• What is the primary advantage of using a breeder reactor over a conventional nuclear reactor?
• Explain how breeder reactors contribute to reducing nuclear waste.
• What types of materials are converted in a breeder reactor and what do they become?

Related terms

Fissile Material: A substance capable of sustaining a chain reaction of nuclear fission when struck by neutrons.

Neutron Absorption: The process by which an atomic nucleus absorbs a neutron, potentially leading to fission or transmutation.

Actinides: A group of elements in the periodic table from actinium onward, many of which are radioactive and used in nuclear technology.