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The control rods in a nuclear reactor are simply neutron absorbers which can be raised or lowered, this enables the reactor to be maintained at criticality with the chain reaction proceeding at a steady rate. The reactor loses reactivity between refuellings which are probably every two years, so the control rods have to be slowly withdrawn to compensate. They are also fully inserted very quickly should the safety instruments require it, and the reactor then stays shutdown. (Reactor scram or trip)

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Is a control rod in nuclear reactor a hollow tube?

Varies. A hollow control rod can act as a "neutron trap." The moderator in the hollow center helps slow the fast neutrons into the thermal region for increased absorption by the surrounding absorbing material such as Boron.


What is the purpose of a ground rod in an electrical system?

The purpose of a ground rod in an electrical system is to provide a safe path for excess electrical current to flow into the ground, preventing the risk of electric shock or damage to equipment.


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 When the control rod is withdrawn (pulled out) of the reactor, the fission reaction rate increases.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.


What is the abbreviation SCRAM standing for in nuclear reactors?

This Abbreviation SCRAM stands for Safety Control Rod Axe Man. The very early nuclear reactors were equipped with a safety control rod that is kept high above and away from the reactor core. This safety control rod was attached to a rope passing over a wheel and going down where the end of the rope is fixed at a lower point. Then a man with axe is always keeping alert and watching the reactor safe operation. In case of emergency, he cuts the rope with the axe and the safety control rod drops by gravity inside the reactor core and stops the nuclear chain fission reaction and consequently stops reactor operation.


What is the purpose of the pen fins?

The purpose of the pen fins is to stabilize the pen during writing, providing better control and precision for the user.

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