Chapter 8.2, Problem 9R

To determine

The nuclear fission process and the method by which the chain reaction in a nuclear reactor is controlled.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The method of the disintegration of the large nucleolus of the radioactive metal into small metal is called nuclear fission. The free neutrons and thermal energy also produced in this process.

The nuclear fission reaction of the Uranium-235 is given as,

${}^1{n}_0{+}^{235}{U}_{92}{\to }^{141}B{a}_{56}{+}^{92}K{r}_{36}+3\left({}^1{n}_0\right)$

During the nuclear fission, Uranium-235 converted into two metals; Barium (Ba-141), Krypton (Kr-92). The three neutrons are also produced in the reaction. These three neutrons further break nucleolus of the other three Uranium-235 atoms. These three Uranium-235 atoms further produce nine neutrons. The process remains in the continuation and the chain of the fission establishes.

The chain reaction in a nuclear reactor is controlled by using control rods. Mostly, the cadmium control rod is used to control the chain reaction. The control rod controls the chain reaction by absorbing the extra neutrons.

Conclusion:

Thus, the chain reaction in a nuclear reactor is controlled by using control rods