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The material used to slow down high-speed neutrons in a reactor is called the moderator. The moderator in a pressurized water reactor is the water, which is the main coolant. Collisions between the neutron and hydrogen nuclei (protons) slow the neutron down (thermalizing it) and increasing the probability that it will be absorbed by another fissionable atom. That makes the chain go, it maintains the chain reaction. Slowing down neutrons does NOTslow down the process of nuclear fission. If anything, it maintains it or speeds it up because slower moving neutrons have a higher probability of being absorbed and continuing or building the chain reaction. A link is provided.

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What is the part of a nuclear reactor called where the nuclear reaction takes place?

The part of a nuclear reactor where the nuclear reaction takes place is called the reactor core. It typically contains the fuel rods, control rods, and coolant necessary for sustaining and controlling the nuclear reaction.


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The nuclear chain reaction in a nuclear reactor is started by the splitting of uranium atoms, a process known as nuclear fission.


What is artificial nuclear reactor?

An artificial nuclear reactor is a device that initiates and controls a sustained nuclear chain reaction. This reaction produces heat, which is used to produce electricity in nuclear power plants. The fission process in these reactors generates energy by splitting atomic nuclei.


What material is a control rod typically made of, and how is it utilized in nuclear reactors?

A control rod in a nuclear reactor is typically made of materials like boron, cadmium, or hafnium. These materials are used because they can absorb neutrons, which helps regulate the nuclear reaction by controlling the rate of fission. When the control rod is inserted into the reactor core, it absorbs neutrons and slows down the reaction. Conversely, when the control rod is removed, more neutrons are available to sustain the reaction and increase power output.


How is the controlled release of nuclear energy in a reactor accomplished?

In a nuclear reactor, controlled release of nuclear energy is achieved through a process called nuclear fission. Uranium atoms are split when struck by neutrons, causing a chain reaction that releases heat energy. This heat is then used to generate steam, which drives turbines to produce electricity.


What type of nuclear reaction occurs in a reactor?

Nuclear fission is the primary type of nuclear reaction that occurs in a reactor. It involves the splitting of heavy atomic nuclei to release energy.


How does the control rod affect the rate of reaction in the nuclear reactor?

A control rod is made of a neutron absorbing material. Boron is common. When the control rod is withdrawn (pulled out) of the reactor, the fission reaction rate increases. When that control rod is inserted, the reaction rate decreases. There are other factors that control the reaction rate, but the rods can be considered as the way to start up or shut down the reactor by pulling or inserting them.


How does a nuclear reactor shoot neutrons?

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Where does the reaction occur in nuclear fission?

Nuclear fission reactions typically occur in the core of a nuclear reactor. This is where the fissionable material, such as uranium-235, is bombarded with neutrons, causing the nuclei to split and release more neutrons and energy in a chain reaction.


How to control nuclear reactions?

Nuclear reactions can be controlled through measures such as inserting control rods into the reactor core to absorb neutrons, adjusting the concentration of the reactor fuel, and controlling the flow of coolant to manage the rate of reaction. These methods help regulate the nuclear chain reaction and maintain a stable operating condition within the reactor. Additionally, operators continuously monitor and adjust these parameters to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the nuclear reactor.


Which section of a nuclear reactor does nuclear fission occur?

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What fuel rods slow down nuclear reactions?

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