Photo AI
What is the main purpose of a moderator in a thermal nuclear reactor? A - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 29 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 29
What is the main purpose of a moderator in a thermal nuclear reactor? A. to shield the surroundings from ionising radiations B. to decrease the number of fission c... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is the main purpose of a moderator in a thermal nuclear reactor? A - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 29 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
C. to decrease neutron speeds
Answer
The primary role of a moderator in a thermal nuclear reactor is to decrease the speed of neutrons produced during fission. By slowing down these neutrons, the likelihood of their being captured by fissile nuclei increases, which facilitates a sustained nuclear chain reaction. This is essential for maintaining the reactor's operational efficiency.