A nuclear power plant uses a reactor core containing uranium-233, symbol 92233U^{233}_{92}\text{U}92233U.
How many neutrons are in a nucleus of uranium-233?
The diagram below represents a typical nuclear fission event in the reactor.
State the terms used to describe the original large nucleus before fission, and the smaller nuclei produced after fission.
Explain how this fission process can lead to a self-sustaining chain reaction.
Explain the main purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor and how they are used to regulate the reaction rate.
State the function of a moderator in a nuclear reactor.
In some historical reactor designs, the tips of the control rods entering the core were made of graphite (a moderator). Suggest why fully inserting these control rods could cause a temporary, dangerous increase in the fission rate.
