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Which of the following substances can be used as a moderator in a nuclear reactor? A Boron B Concrete C Uranium-238 D Water - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 32 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 32
Which of the following substances can be used as a moderator in a nuclear reactor? A Boron B Concrete C Uranium-238 D Water
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which of the following substances can be used as a moderator in a nuclear reactor? A Boron B Concrete C Uranium-238 D Water - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 32 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Which of the following substances can be used as a moderator in a nuclear reactor?
Answer
In nuclear reactors, moderators are materials used to slow down the neutrons produced during fission reactions, making them more effective in sustaining the chain reaction.
- A Boron: Although boron is used as a neutron absorber in some reactors, it is not typically used as a moderator.
- B Concrete: Concrete is primarily used for shielding and structural support but is not effective as a moderator.
- C Uranium-238: This isotope can absorb neutrons but is not used as a moderator.
- D Water: Water is one of the most common moderators used in nuclear reactors, particularly in light water reactors, as it effectively slows down neutrons.
Thus, the correct answer is D Water.