Why does lowering the control rods in a nuclear reactor reduce the amount of energy released each second from the nuclear fuel?
The boron control rods absorb slow-moving neutrons (thermal neutrons), which means that there are less available neutrons in the reactor. Since nuclear fission requires a collison between a neutron and a uranium nucleus, less neutrons means less fission reactions taking place. Hence, the rate of energy production decreases.
LC
Related Physics GCSE answers
All answers ▸Draw diagrams to represent the particles in each state: solid, liquid, and gas.
Explain the different sources of background radiation
A man decides to shoot a rifle whilst on a wheelchair. Explain in terms of conservation of momentum what happens to the man as the shot is fired.
Why do airbags make a car safer