A nuclear reactor is a sophisticated device designed to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction. Its primary purpose is to generate energy from nuclear fission. The reactor contains key components including nuclear fuel like Uranium-235, control rods for regulation, a coolant system for heat transfer, and a containment structure for safety.
Nuclear fission is the process that powers a reactor. When a neutron strikes a Uranium-235 nucleus, it becomes unstable and splits into smaller fragments. This splitting releases a tremendous amount of energy and produces two to three new neutrons, which can then strike other uranium nuclei, creating a chain reaction.
The chain reaction must be carefully controlled. In a critical state, the reaction sustains itself with each fission producing exactly enough neutrons to continue. Control rods made of neutron-absorbing materials can be inserted or withdrawn to regulate the reaction rate. When rods are inserted deeper, they absorb more neutrons, slowing the reaction.
The heat generated by nuclear fission must be converted into electricity. A coolant system absorbs heat from the reactor core and transfers it to a steam generator. The resulting steam drives turbines connected to electrical generators. This process converts nuclear energy into electrical energy with an efficiency of about thirty to thirty-five percent.
To summarize what we have learned: Nuclear reactors are sophisticated devices that control nuclear fission chain reactions to generate electricity. Control rods regulate the reaction rate by absorbing neutrons. The heat produced is converted to electricity through steam turbines. Multiple safety systems ensure controlled operation, making nuclear power a clean and reliable source of baseload electricity.