Nuclear Reactor Quiz

What are the two basic types of fission reactors used in the United States?

• Light water reactors and heavy water reactors

• Boiling water reactors and pressurized water reactors

• Fast breeder reactors and thermal reactors

• Gas-cooled reactors and liquid-metal reactors

What is the primary function of control rods in a nuclear reactor?

• To increase the temperature of the reactor

• To absorb neutrons and control the fission process

• To cool down the reactor core

• To generate electricity directly

How does a boiling water reactor (BWR) generate electricity?

• By using solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity

• By burning coal to produce steam

• By using the heat from fission to convert water to steam, which spins a turbine

• By directly converting nuclear energy into electricity

What is a key difference between a boiling water reactor (BWR) and a pressurized water reactor (PWR)?

• BWRs use a steam generator, while PWRs do not

• PWRs operate at higher pressures than BWRs

• BWRs have a secondary loop, while PWRs do not

• PWRs use graphite as a moderator, while BWRs use water

As of 2004, how many nuclear power reactors were in operation worldwide?

• About 100

• About 200

• About 300

• About 439

What was the outcome of the meeting regarding greenhouse gas emissions for developed nations?

• Increase emissions to 1990 levels

• Limit emissions to 1990 levels

• Eliminate emissions completely

• Maintain current emission levels

What is one of the main concerns when considering nuclear power and the environment?

• Cost of nuclear power

• Storage of nuclear waste

• Availability of uranium

• Construction of nuclear plants

What did President Jimmy Carter ban in 1977?

• Nuclear power plant construction

• Reprocessing of nuclear waste

• Use of nuclear weapons

• Import of nuclear materials

What is the purpose of the Nuclear Waste Fund?

• To build new nuclear power plants

• To develop renewable energy sources

• To support the development of a permanent waste disposal site

• To fund nuclear research

What is a significant challenge in transporting nuclear waste?

• High transportation costs

• Lack of suitable vehicles

• Risk of accidents and sabotage

• Limited storage facilities