Explain the principle and working of a nuclear reactor with the help of a labelled diagram.
Nuclear reactor:
Principle: It works on the principle of achieving controlled chain reaction of Uranium 238U enriched with 235U and as a result generating huge amount of energy. The controlled chain is made possible by :
- slowing down the fission neutrons to thermal neutrons by using a moderator.
- inserting rods that can absorb neutrons(control rods) and use them to maintain the reaction rate.
Working:
Clearly explained in the image.
- In general the fuel used is 235U which is filled in aluminium cylindrical rod.
- The moderator used are D2O heavy water, salt water and graphite block.
- The materials like Beryllium and Cadmium rods are used as control rods which controls the chain reaction by absorbing the neutron emitted in the nuclear reaction.
- Cold water is circulated through the water pipes surrounding ht nuclear reactor to absorb heat.