Nuclear power plants: Fukushima

Which statement is true about isotopes?

• Isotopes of an element have the same number of neutrons in their nuclei, but different numbers of protons.

• Isotopes of an element have different chemical properties.

• Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons in their nuclei, but different numbers of neutrons.

• Isotopes of an element have the same relative atomic mass.

Which uranium isotope is used in nuclear reactors?

• Both uranium-235 and uranium-238 occur in nuclear reactors.

• Only uranium-238 is used in nuclear reactors.

• Only uranium-235 is used in nuclear reactors.

• Only uranium-236 is used in nuclear reactors.

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NGSS.HS-PS1-8

Which of these statements is not true?

• Two atoms of hydrogen combine via fusion to create helium.

• During fission a heavier nucleus is split into two lighter nuclei.

• The Fukushima reactor generated energy via nuclear fusion.

• In the fission process several neutrons are emitted.

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NGSS.HS-PS1-8

What does BWR stand for?

• Biological water reaction

• Boiling water reaction

• Boiling water reactor

• Boiling water replacement

How is PWR different from BWR? Select all answers that apply.

• In the reactor circuit water stays in liquid state due to the high pressure.

• In a PWR system there are two process water circles as opposed to one in the BWR system.

• Steam makes the turbine shafts rotate, which generates electricity.

• The water turns to steam due to the heat created by the fission reaction.

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NGSS.HS-PS3-4

Why is zirconium used as outer covering (cladding) in the fuel rods in the reactor of a nuclear power station?

• Zirconium is heat resistant.

• Zirconium absorbs relatively few neutrons.

• Zirconium is a cheap metal.

• Zirconium resists corrosion.

The largest remaining issue at the former Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plants seems to be that

• people still have to wear full face mask and respirator.

• experts need to look ahead 30 to 40 years.

• there are strict security checks on the road.

• ground water still keeps mixing with contaminated water.

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NGSS.HS-ESS3-4

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

What are measures taken to protect the environment near the former nuclear plant? Select all that apply.

• Tanks are built about every other day to hold contaminated water.

• Gutters, dikes, and trenches are created to catch leaking water.

• A chemical is injected in the ground to turn water into a viscous gel.

• As last line of defense a water-shielding wall was built.

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NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

What can the advanced liquid processing system (ALPS) do?

• It filters out all radioactive isotopes.

• It removes radioactive cesium and strontium.

• It removes tritium, and about 60 other radioactive isotopes.

• It condenses steam to water rapidly.

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NGSS.HS-ESS3-4

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

What needs to be considered before the water is released after the filtering step?

• Tritium levels need to be checked.

• Social issues need to be worked out.

• Fishermen need to be informed and involved in the decision.

• The water needs to be drinkable before release.