With the help of a neat diagram describe a nuclear reactor.
ANS:
* A nuclear reactor is used for generation of electric power, production of fissile materials, nuclear research and for the production of man-made radioactive isotopes.
* As shown in figure a nuclear reactor consists of a core of reaction vessel called pressure chamber that can withstand very high pressures.
* The core consists of fuel rods (uranium rods) used as the fuel as well as a moderator like heavy water or graphite.
* The water is pumped into the pressure chamber to remove the heat generated during fission. This heat converts water into steam.
* This steam with high pressure and temperature is used to rotate the turbines of the generator and electric power is generated.
* The steam loses its heat in the process and cools down. It is allowed to cool further and the water thus obtained is reused in the process.
* The different fractions (products) obtained are : petroleum gases, petrol(gasoline), kerosene, diesel, lubricating oil, petroleum wax, tar, etc.
|