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The reason 235U is used in nuclear reactors as a fuel is because it supports an increasing-rate nuclear (fission) chain reaction; it is fissile. It will release neutrons when it fissions, and these neutrons, if they can be slowed a bit, will cause more 235U atoms to fission and a chain will quickly build. This isotope of uranium is capable of crating a sustainable nuclear chain reaction with the least "tinkering" as regards geometry, moderators and other reactor components or systems. A link will be found below to the Wikipedia post this isotope of uranium.

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16y ago

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What is the form of nuclear energy?

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Which element is the main fuel in nuclear power plants?

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Is silver used in the operation of nuclear power plants?

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One commonly used in nuclear power plants?

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What element is used as fuel in nuclear power plants?

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