IB Physics HL E 4 3 Nuclear Power Plant Roles Questions
Identify HL nuclear power-plant components, explaining how moderators, absorbers and control systems regulate fission and power output.
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2025
- Course
- Physics HL
- Level
- HL
Exam points
- state that a moderator slows neutrons so they are more likely to cause further fission
- distinguish the roles of control rods or neutron absorbers, fuel and moderator in controlling the chain reaction
- connect neutron moderation and absorption to the safe regulation of reactor power and energy production
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IB Physics HL E 4 3 Nuclear Power Plant Roles Questions question 1
[Maximum number: 3]
This question is about energy sources.
A small island is situated in the Arctic. The islanders require an electricity supply but have no fossil fuels on the island. It is suggested that wind generators should be used in combination with power stations using either oil or nuclear fuel.
A nuclear reactor requires both control rods and a moderator to operate. Outline, with reference to neutrons, one similarity and two differences in the function of each of these components.
control rods absorb neutrons;
moderators slow down neutrons;
both affect the rate of reaction;
both rely on the neutrons colliding with their atoms/nuclei;
Must see reference to collision/interaction for fourth marking point.
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