What is used to break an atom apart in nuclear fission?
a. Electron
b. Neutron
c. Proton
d. Boson
2. When an atom splits, what is released?
Energy, heat, neutrons
3. Why do nuclear reactors need to have their temperature regulated?
There are several reasons: Maintain the optimal temperature to make the reactions efficient, to make the reaction self-perpetuating, go “critical”, to avoid overheating the plant
4. What is type of material is usually found in a nuclear reactor?
a. Uranium
b. Plutonium
c. Helium
d. Hydrogen
Radiation Risk Comprehension Check
What is the greatest source of man-made radiation exposure for most people?
Medical tests and procedures
What are some of the long-term consequences of radiation exposure?
Cancers
Does nuclear energy cause more or less deaths than coal-based fuel each year?
Less
1. What is "shielding" and why is it important?
Shielding is material designed to block the radiation from escaping a reaction. Shielding protects humans from harmful levels of radiation.
2. What are some of the differences between a nuclear reactor that is land-based compared to one on a submarine?
Has to be rugged because the ships move more, the radioactive waste material has to be stored underground, directly turns a turbine to propel the submarine, have to be able to change the power output to steer the ship
3. When a submarine is decommissioned, the reactor compartment is used to house some of the waste. Eventually, even the reactor compartment will corrode and release its contents. Why is that not a major concern?
They hope that radioactive decay (defined by the half-life) will reduce the risk greatly before this happens