Nuclear Power

A quick Review 1.Nuclear chemistry involves what part of an atom? The nucleus- they can change the element by altering the number of protons in the nucleus. 2.What type of nuclear reaction splits an atom? Fission reactions 3.What does alpha radiation change about an atom? Lowers the # of protons by 2 and neutrons by 2. 4.What does beta radiation change about an atom? Increases # of protons by 1.

5.What does gamma radiation change about an atom? Nothing. It is only high amounts of energy. 6.How much of a 50 g sample of plutonium is left after 3 half-lives? 6.25 grams plutonium are left 50/2 = 25/ 2 = 12.5 /2 = 6.25 g 7.If the half-life of a substance is 3.8 days, how much time has past by the 4 th half-life? 3.8 days x 4 = 15.2 days

Nuclear Power Nuclear Power reactors use fission reactions to produce energy in the form of heat. The heat is converted into electrical energy and we use that energy in our power grid.

Reactor Basics Reactor Vessel- where the radioactive fuel source is held. The chain reaction is started by neutron bombardment of the fuel. As the reaction proceeds it gives off more neutrons, continuing the reaction. Control Rods- used to absorb neutrons when the reaction needs to be slowed. Steam Generator- the nuclear reaction creates heat that is circulated through pipes that flow through a water container. This heats the water and creates steam.

Reactor Basics Turbine- Steam forces it to turn (like a wind mill) which converts the energy to electricity in the generator. Generator- transfers the energy to the power grid. Condenser- has cool water flowing in pipes through it so the steam can cool back into liquid water and be reused. Containment Structure- used to contain the nuclear reactor core in case of problems.