IB Physics SL E 4 2 Chain Reactions Questions

Explain SL nuclear chain reactions, including uranium enrichment, neutron absorption, fuel use and the conditions needed for a sustainable reaction.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • explain why U-235 enrichment is needed when U-238 is more abundant and absorbs neutrons without sustaining the required fission chain
  • analyse how neutron absorbers and accumulating waste products reduce the number of neutrons available for a continuing chain reaction
  • relate fuel consumption, neutron availability and reactor operation to the maintenance of a controlled sustainable chain reaction

IB Physics SL E 4 2 Chain Reactions Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

This question is about nuclear power production.

Outline the reason why fuel enrichment is necessary for the fuel used in a commercial nuclear reactor.

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