Nuclear Core

The nuclear core refers to the central part of a nuclear reactor where the nuclear fission process takes place. It is composed of fuel rods, control rods, and coolant. The core is the heart of the reactor and is responsible for sustaining the nuclear chain reaction.

Key Components of the Nuclear Core

• Fuel Rods: These are long, slender tubes containing the nuclear fuel, typically uranium-235 or plutonium-239. The fuel undergoes fission, releasing energy in the form of heat.
• Control Rods: These are made of neutron-absorbing material, such as boron or cadmium, and are used to regulate the rate of the nuclear reaction by absorbing excess neutrons.
• Coolant: The coolant, often water or a liquid metal, circulates through the core to transfer heat away from the fuel rods and control the temperature of the reactor.

Nuclear Fission Process

Nuclear fission is the process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. In the nuclear core, this process is carefully controlled to produce heat for generating electricity.

Study Guide

1. Describe the role of fuel rods in the nuclear core.
2. Explain how control rods are used to regulate the nuclear reaction.
3. Discuss the importance of coolant in the nuclear core and how it helps manage the reactor's temperature.
4. Outline the nuclear fission process and its significance in the operation of a nuclear reactor.