In nuclear reactors, cadmium rods are used as which of the following?...
Cadmium Rods in Nuclear Reactors
In nuclear reactors, cadmium rods serve a critical function in controlling the nuclear fission process. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Role of Cadmium Rods
- Neutron Absorption: Cadmium has a high ability to absorb neutrons. This property makes it an effective material for controlling the rate of nuclear reactions.
- Control Mechanism: By inserting or withdrawing cadmium rods from the reactor core, operators can manage the number of free neutrons available for sustaining the nuclear chain reaction.
Why Not Fuel, Moderator, or Lubricant?
- Not Fuel: The primary function of fuel in a nuclear reactor is to undergo fission and produce energy. Materials like uranium or plutonium serve this purpose, not cadmium.
- Not Moderator: Moderators are materials that slow down neutrons to increase the likelihood of fission. Common moderators include water or graphite, while cadmium absorbs neutrons and does not slow them down.
- Not Lubricant: Lubricants in nuclear reactors are used to reduce friction in moving parts, which is not the role of cadmium rods.
Conclusion
In summary, cadmium rods are integral to the operation of nuclear reactors as controllers of the fission process, ensuring that the reaction remains stable and manageable. Their ability to absorb neutrons effectively makes them essential for regulating the reactor's output and safety.
In nuclear reactors, cadmium rods are used as which of the following?...
In nuclear reactors, cadmium rods are used as Controllers. Control rods are used in nuclear reactors to control the fission rate of uranium and plutonium. They are composed of chemical elements such as boron, silver, indium and cadmium that are capable of absorbing many neutrons without fissioning themselves.