Chapter 15: Problem 4

How do nuclear reactors and nuclear power plants generate electrical power?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Nuclear power plants generate electrical power through a process called nuclear fission where the nucleus of atoms (usually Uranium-235 or Plutonium-239) is split into smaller parts releasing a huge amount of heat. This heat is used to convert water into steam which drives a turbine connected to an electrical generator to produce electricity.

Step by step solution

Understanding the Fission Process

Nuclear power is generated through the process of nuclear fission, which involves the splitting of an atom's nucleus into smaller parts. In the case of nuclear power reactors, the most commonly used material is Uranium-235 or Plutonium-239. When these atoms absorb a moving neutron, they split into two fission products and two to three neutrons. This process produces a huge amount of energy in the form of heat.

Role of the Moderator and Control Rods

In a nuclear reactor, a moderator is used to slow down the high-speed neutrons produced by fission to increase the probability of more fissions, which results in a controlled chain reaction. Additionally, control rods are used to absorb excess neutrons and ensure that the chain reaction does not get out of control.

Generation of Electricity

The heat produced by the fission process is used to heat up water, which turns into steam. This steam drives a turbine, which spins a generator to create electricity.

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How do nuclear reactors and nuclear power plants generate electrical power?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the Fission Process

Role of the Moderator and Control Rods

Generation of Electricity

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