People also ask
How does uranium power work?
How Does it Work? 1 Energy from the uranium atom. The nucleus of the U-235 atom comprises 92 protons and 143 neutrons (92 + 143 = 235). … 2 Inside the reactor. Nuclear power stations and fossil-fuelled power stations of similar capacity have many features in common. 3 From uranium ore to reactor fuel. …
What is the physics of uranium and nuclear energy?
Physics of Uranium and Nuclear Energy 1 Nuclear fission is the main process generating nuclear energy. 2 Radioactive decay of both fission products and transuranic elements formed in a reactor yield heat even after fission has ceased. 3 Fission reactions may be moderated to increase fission, or unmoderated to breed further fuel. More items…
Can plutonium be used as a nuclear reactor fuel?
Thus, it would appear that even without breeder reactors, plutonium can be useful as a nuclear reactor fuel. While this argument is theoretically correct from the point of view of physics, it fails on economic grounds.
How is heat used in a nuclear power station?
The heat is used to make steam to produce electricity. Nuclear power stations and fossil-fuelled power stations of similar capacity have many features in common. Both require heat to produce steam to drive turbines and generators. In a nuclear power station, however, the fissioning of uranium atoms replaces the burning of coal or gas.
