Chapter 7, Problem 42Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Explanation for the presence of higher isotopes such as $\text{Pu-240}$ and $\text{Pu-241}$ in reactor grade plutonium has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

$\text{U-235}$ is used as fuel in both nuclear reactor and nuclear weapons. Natural abundance of $\text{U-235}$ is very less compared to $\text{U-238}$. In order to use in reactor and weapons uranium has to be enriched with $\text{U-235}$. $\text{Pu-239}$ is obtained from spent fuel of reactor by the decay of $\text{U-238}$ on bombarding with neutron. This $\text{Pu-239}$ can be used as fuel for nuclear weapons.