What is the function of the control rods in the entire fission reactor proccess?

Fuel rods provide fissionable elements such as uranium - 235 , The uranium abosrbs a neutron at thermal speeds (  energy transefered to the moderator) from previous reactions. This then enables the Uranium to go through a fission reaction. The reaction splits the uranium into smaller elements with a higher binding energy per neucleon, neutrons and energy. The neutrons expelled from this reaction create a exponetial increase in the rate or on going reactions. The control rods reduce the reaction rate the further they are lowered into the chamber. The control rods absorb the neutrons to modulate this ratebof reaction.  

CS
Answered by Charles S. Physics tutor

5596 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between a longitudinal and a transverse wave?


A Uranium-(238,92) nucleus decays into a Thorium-234 nucleus by the emission of an alpha-particle. Given Thorium has a chemical symbol Th build a nuclear equation.


How would we calculate the distance covered by a train that starts at rest, then accelerates to 5km/hr in 30 mins then stays at this constant speed for 12 minutes?


How do you calculate the Earth's escape velocity?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning