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Electricity is generated in a nuclear power station - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 10 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 10
Electricity is generated in a nuclear power station. Fission is the process by which energy is released in the nuclear reactor. Figure 14 shows the first part of th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Electricity is generated in a nuclear power station - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 10 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Complete Figure 14 to show how the fission process starts a chain reaction.
Answer
To complete Figure 14, illustrate a nucleus splitting into two fragments, with the emission of three neutrons. Indicate that at least one of these neutrons is absorbed by another large nucleus, thus causing further fission reactions. Additionally, depict the release of two or three additional neutrons which can perpetuate the chain reaction.
Step 2
Explain how the energy released by the chain reaction is affected by moving the control rods.
Answer
Lowering the control rods increases the number of neutrons absorbed. This results in a decrease in the active chain reaction, thus reducing the energy released. Conversely, raising the control rods decreases neutron absorption, allowing more reactions to occur and increasing the energy output.
Step 3
Calculate the rate of increase of power output at 10 minutes.
Answer
To find the rate of increase of power output at 10 minutes, examine the provided outputs. Given the outputs fall between 240 MW/min and 276 MW/min, the rate can be estimated. If we consider the average, this yields:
Thus, the rate of increase of power output is approximately 258 MW/min.