Asked by Kristian Johnston on May 07, 2024
Verified
Which substance is the fissionable fraction of the fuel in a nuclear reactor?
A) deuterium
B) uranium-235
C) plutonium-235
D) hydrogen
Fissionable Fraction
The portion of a nuclear fuel that can undergo fission, the process by which atomic nuclei split to release energy.
Uranium-235
A naturally occurring isotope of uranium with the ability to undergo fission, making it a critical component for nuclear reactors and weapons.
- Familiarize yourself with the basic elements of nuclear energy, highlighting the issues of safety, accidents history, and the fuel cycle's progression.
Verified Answer
JJ
Jordan JollyMay 13, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Uranium-235 is the fissionable fraction of the fuel in a nuclear reactor. It is the only naturally occurring fissile isotope and can sustain a chain reaction by undergoing fission with thermal neutrons. Deuterium and hydrogen are isotopes of hydrogen that are primarily used in fusion reactions, while plutonium-235 is a man-made fissile isotope that can also sustain a chain reaction but is typically produced in nuclear reactors through neutron capture.
Learning Objectives
- Familiarize yourself with the basic elements of nuclear energy, highlighting the issues of safety, accidents history, and the fuel cycle's progression.