Article
Article
Nuclear reactor
Article By:
Holbert, Keith School of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona.
Last reviewed:August 2022
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.460100
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A system using nuclear fission in a controlled and self-sustaining manner. Neutrons are used to fission the nuclear fuel. The fission reaction produces energy and radiation as well as additional neutrons, starting a neutron chain reaction. A nuclear reactor provides the assembly of materials to sustain and control the neutron chain reaction, to transport the heat produced from the fission reactions, and to provide the necessary safety features to cope with the radiation and radioactive materials produced by its operation (Fig. 1). See also: Chain reaction (physics); Energy; Heat; Neutron; Nuclear fission; Radiation
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