Nuclear Power

Front

What is the main function of a coolant in a nuclear fission reactor?

Back

To absorb energy produced by the reaction.

Front

What does a nuclear reactor produce heat to warm water into?

Back

Steam, which turns a turbine.

Front

What is a chain reaction in nuclear fission?

Back

When a nuclear fission reaction occurs, the neutrons emitted can strike other nuclei in the sample, causing them to split.

Front

Why are control rods in nuclear reactors made of boron and cadmium?

Back

Because these elements have the ability to absorb neutrons.

Front

What is one benefit of nuclear fission reactions?

Back

Production of energy.

Front

Define nuclear fission.

Back

The process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing energy.

Front

What is the role of neutrons in a nuclear fission reaction?

Back

Neutrons initiate and sustain the chain reaction by striking other nuclei.

Front

What is the purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor?

Back

To regulate the rate of the nuclear reaction by absorbing excess neutrons.

Front

What is the difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion?

Back

Fission splits heavy nuclei, while fusion combines light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.

Front

What is radioactive waste?

Back

Material that remains radioactive and hazardous after nuclear fission has occurred.