Control rods are used to prevent uncontrolled chain reactions from happening inside nuclear power plants. Based on what you know about nuclear reactions, which is the most important characteristic a control rod should have?

Question

Chemistry

Annabel Buckley

7 March, 08:03

Control rods are used to prevent uncontrolled chain reactions from happening inside nuclear power plants. Based on what you know about nuclear reactions, which is the most important characteristic a control rod should have?

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Answers (1)

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Dayton Cabrera · Answer 1

Answer : The main function of the control rods in a nuclear power plant is to absorb the unwanted extra neutrons emitted after the nuclear fission reaction, as to slow down or completely shut down the reaction in case of certain emergencies.

The main idea is to prevent uncontrolled chain reactions which occurs in nuclear fission reactors. The important characteristic of a control rod should be made of a material which does not undergoes fission.