What happens during nuclear chain reaction?
A chain reaction refers to a process in which neutrons released in fission produce an additional fission in at least one further nucleus. This nucleus in turn produces neutrons, and the process repeats. The process may be controlled (nuclear power) or uncontrolled (nuclear weapons).
What is the difference between controlled and uncontrolled chain reaction?
The key difference between controlled and uncontrolled chain reactions is that controlled chain reactions do not lead to any explosive effects whereas uncontrolled chain reactions lead to explosive energy release. An uncontrolled chain reaction has no control measures.
What is uncontrolled chain reaction?
(ii) Uncontrolled chain reaction: In the uncontrolled chain reaction the number of neutrons multiplies indefinitely and causes fission in a large amount of the fissile material. This kind of chain reaction is used in the atom bomb to produce an explosion.
What does Chain Reaction mean?
A chain reaction is a sequence of reactions where a reactive product or by-product causes additional reactions to take place. In a chain reaction, positive feedback leads to a self-amplifying chain of events.
Is nuclear a reactor?
A nuclear reactor, formerly known as an atomic pile, is a device used to initiate and control a fission nuclear chain reaction or nuclear fusion reactions. Nuclear reactors are used at nuclear power plants for electricity generation and in nuclear marine propulsion.
How nuclear energy is generated?
Nuclear Power Nuclear energy originates from the splitting of uranium atoms – a process called fission. This generates heat to produce steam, which is used by a turbine generator to generate electricity. Because nuclear power plants do not burn fuel, they do not produce greenhouse gas emissions.
What are the main parts of nuclear reactor?
Components of a nuclear reactor
- Fuel.
- Moderator.
- Control rods or blades.
- Coolant.
- Pressure vessel or pressure tubes.
- Steam generator.
- Containment.
Is nuclear energy economically viable?
On a levelised (i.e. lifetime) basis, nuclear power is an economic source of electricity generation, combining the advantages of security, reliability and very low greenhouse gas emissions.