How is the speed of reaction in a nuclear reactor controlled?

In order to ensure the nuclear reaction takes place at the right speed, reactors have systems that accelerate, slow or shut down the nuclear reaction, and the heat it produces. This is normally done with control rods, which typically are made out of neutron-absorbing materials such as silver and boron.

What is used to control the speed of nuclear reaction?

The use of a moderator (light water, heavy water or graphite) slows down neutrons. Control rods are made of material like boron that absorbs neutrons, which stops them from splitting more uranium atoms. Raising the control rods speeds up the chain reaction and lowering them slows or even stops it.

Which part of the reactor is designed to control the rate of nuclear fission?

Rods
Control Rods When control rod assemblies are inserted into the fuel element in the reactor core, they absorb a larger fraction of the slow neutrons, thereby slowing the rate of the fission reaction and decreasing the power produced.

What is used to control a controlled nuclear reaction?

Most reactors are controlled by means of control rods that are made of a strongly neutron-absorbent material such as boron or cadmium. These fast neutrons are slowed through the use of a moderator such as heavy water and ordinary water. Some reactors use graphite as a moderator, but this design has several problems.

How nuclear chain reaction is controlled in nuclear reactor?

Inside the reactor vessel, the fuel rods are immersed in water which acts as both a coolant and moderator. The moderator helps slow down the neutrons produced by fission to sustain the chain reaction. Control rods can then be inserted into the reactor core to reduce the reaction rate or withdrawn to increase it.

What is chain reaction and how is it controlled in nuclear reactor?

A chain reaction refers to a process in which neutrons released in fission produce an additional fission in at least one further nucleus. This nucleus in turn produces neutrons, and the process repeats. The process may be controlled (nuclear power) or uncontrolled (nuclear weapons).

What are the main parts of a nuclear reactor?

Components of a nuclear reactor

• Fuel.
• Moderator.
• Control rods or blades.
• Coolant.
• Pressure vessel or pressure tubes.
• Steam generator.
• Containment.

Are used to control the operation of the reactor?

Operating principle Control rods are inserted into the core of a nuclear reactor and adjusted in order to control the rate of the nuclear chain reaction and, thereby, the thermal power output of the reactor, the rate of steam production, and the electrical power output of the power station.