Enriched uranium isa)Uranium rods kept under special shieldb)Natural u...
Enriched uranium is a type of uranium in which the percent composition of uranium-235 has been increased through the process of isotope separation. Enriched uranium is a critical component for both civil nuclear power generation and military nuclear weapons. The International Atomic Energy Agency attempts to monitor and control enriched uranium supplies and processes in its efforts to ensure nuclear power generation safety and curb nuclear weapons proliferation.
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Enriched uranium isa)Uranium rods kept under special shieldb)Natural u...
Understanding Enriched Uranium
Enriched uranium refers specifically to uranium that has a higher concentration of the isotope U-235 compared to natural uranium. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why option 'B' is correct:
Composition of Natural Uranium
- Natural uranium primarily consists of U-238 (about 99.3%) and U-235 (about 0.7%).
- U-235 is the isotope that is fissile, meaning it can sustain a nuclear chain reaction.
What is Enrichment?
- Enrichment is the process of increasing the percentage of U-235 in uranium.
- In enriched uranium, the concentration of U-235 is artificially increased, typically to levels of 3-5% for nuclear reactors or even higher for nuclear weapons.
Significance of Enriched Uranium
- Enriched uranium is crucial for nuclear power generation as it allows for more efficient fuel use.
- The higher proportion of U-235 makes it possible to achieve a sustained nuclear reaction, which is essential for energy production.
Other Options Explained
- Option 'A': Uranium rods kept under special shield - This refers to safety measures and does not define enriched uranium.
- Option 'C': Natural uranium mixed with thorium - This describes a different type of nuclear fuel cycle, not enrichment.
- Option 'D': Uranium rods coated with chromium - This is unrelated to the enrichment process.
In summary, enriched uranium is specifically defined by the artificial increase of the U-235 isotope, making option 'B' the correct answer. Understanding this concept is vital for grasping nuclear energy applications.