In a pressurized-water nuclear reactor (PWR), a sustained nuclear chain reaction is utilized to generate electricity.
State the primary physical function of each of the following components in the reactor system: (i) The biological shielding (ii) The primary coolant
Immediately after a heavy nucleus undergoes fission, the resulting fission fragments fly apart at high speed due to electrostatic repulsion. State the primary form of energy possessed by these fragments at this instant.
Fast neutrons are released during the fission of uranium-235. Explain why a moderator is required within the reactor core to sustain the nuclear chain reaction.
Describe how the depth of control rods within the reactor core is adjusted to maintain a constant, controlled rate of fission. Refer to neutron absorption in your answer.