Nuclear reactors

Nuclear reactors

A nuclear reactor harnesses the energy released by fission:
- Fuel rods of uranium-238 and uranium-235 are lowered into a reactor. Neutrons released from one rod cause a fission reaction of uranium-235 in another.
- Control rods made of boron absorb neutrons released during fission to control the rate of chain reactions. The further the rods are lowered the slower the rate will be.
- A thick concrete shield prevents neutrons and other radiation from escaping the reactor.
Failing to control the chain reaction will cause energy to be released at an extremely fast rate. This is the principle used in a nuclear bomb.

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