IB Physics SL E.4.3 Nuclear Power Plant Roles

Practise distinguishing the moderator, control rods, coolant or heat exchanger and shielding in a reactor and explaining how each supports sustained, controlled energy production.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
Level
SL

Exam points

  • state that the moderator slows neutrons to increase the probability of further fission
  • state that control rods absorb neutrons and are adjusted to regulate the reaction rate
  • trace thermal energy through coolant and heat exchanger while shielding absorbs ionizing radiation

E.4.3—Nuclear power plant roles 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.

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