Nuclear Waste – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Nuclear Waste? Nuclear waste, also known as radioactive waste, is a byproduct of nuclear power generation, nuclear weapons production, and other nuclear applications. It is composed of materials that have become radioactive due to exposure to nuclear reactions. This waste is highly hazardous and poses serious risks to human health and the … Read more

Neutron Poison – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Neutron Poison? Neutron poison is a substance that absorbs neutrons in a nuclear reactor, thereby reducing the number of neutrons available for sustaining a chain reaction. Neutrons are essential for the fission process in a nuclear reactor, as they initiate the splitting of uranium atoms, releasing energy in the form of heat. … Read more

Nuclear Proliferation – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Nuclear Proliferation? Nuclear proliferation refers to the spread of nuclear weapons and technology to additional countries or non-state actors. This can occur through the development of new nuclear weapons programs, the acquisition of nuclear materials, or the transfer of nuclear technology from one country to another. The proliferation of nuclear weapons is … Read more

Synroc (Synthetic Rock) – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Synroc (Synthetic Rock)? Synroc, short for Synthetic Rock, is a man-made material designed to safely encapsulate and immobilize radioactive waste from nuclear power plants. Developed in the 1970s by a team of researchers in Australia, Synroc is composed of a combination of ceramic materials that mimic the natural crystalline structure of rocks … Read more

Containment Building – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is a Containment Building? A containment building is a reinforced structure that surrounds a nuclear reactor to contain any potential releases of radioactive materials in the event of a nuclear accident. It is designed to prevent the spread of radiation to the environment and protect the surrounding population from exposure to harmful levels … Read more

Nuclear Reactor Core Dynamics – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Nuclear Reactor Core Dynamics? Nuclear reactor core dynamics refer to the complex interactions and behaviors of the core of a nuclear reactor during operation. The core is the central part of a nuclear reactor where nuclear reactions take place, generating heat that is used to produce electricity. Understanding and controlling the dynamics … Read more

Nuclear Energy Regulation – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Nuclear Energy Regulation? Nuclear energy regulation refers to the set of laws, rules, and guidelines that govern the safe and secure operation of nuclear power plants and facilities. These regulations are put in place to ensure that the production, storage, and disposal of nuclear materials are conducted in a manner that minimizes … Read more

Fast Spectrum Reactor – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is a Fast Spectrum Reactor? Fast Spectrum Reactors are a type of nuclear reactor that use fast neutrons to sustain the nuclear fission chain reaction. Unlike thermal reactors, which use slow neutrons, fast spectrum reactors operate at higher speeds, allowing for more efficient use of nuclear fuel and the ability to breed new … Read more

Radiation Exposure – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Radiation Exposure? Radiation exposure refers to the process of being exposed to ionizing radiation, which is a form of energy that can cause damage to living tissues. Ionizing radiation can come from various sources, including medical procedures, nuclear power plants, and natural sources such as radon gas. When a person is exposed … Read more