I. What is a Fuel Rod? Fuel rods are long, slender tubes that contain the fuel used in nuclear reactors to generate electricity. These rods are a crucial component of nuclear power plants, as they house the radioactive material that undergoes fission reactions to produce heat. This heat is then used to generate steam, which … Read more
I. What is a Tokamak? A Tokamak is a type of device used to confine hot plasma in the shape of a torus, or doughnut. It is one of the most promising technologies for achieving controlled nuclear fusion, a process that mimics the sun’s energy production. The word “Tokamak” is a Russian acronym that stands … Read more
I. What is Nuclear Decommissioning? Nuclear decommissioning is the process of safely shutting down and dismantling a nuclear facility, such as a power plant or research reactor, at the end of its operational life. This process involves removing radioactive materials, decontaminating equipment and structures, and managing radioactive waste. The goal of nuclear decommissioning is to … Read more
I. What is Radiotoxicity? Radiotoxicity refers to the harmful effects of ionizing radiation on living organisms. Ionizing radiation is a form of energy that can penetrate the body and disrupt the structure of cells, leading to various health issues. This type of radiation can come from sources such as nuclear power plants, medical procedures, and … Read more
I. What is Nuclear Energy? Nuclear energy is a type of energy that is generated from the splitting of atoms in a process called nuclear fission. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy in the form of heat, which can then be used to generate electricity. Nuclear energy is considered a form of clean … Read more
I. What is Mixed Oxide Fuel (MOX)? Mixed Oxide Fuel (MOX) is a type of nuclear fuel that is used in some nuclear reactors around the world. It is made by mixing plutonium oxide with uranium oxide, hence the name “mixed oxide.” This fuel is used as an alternative to traditional uranium fuel in some … Read more
I. What is Nuclear Fusion? Nuclear fusion is a process in which two atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This process is the same one that powers the sun and other stars, where hydrogen atoms are fused together to form helium. In a controlled … Read more
I. What is Ionizing Radiation? Ionizing radiation is a type of energy that has enough power to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating charged particles known as ions. This process can cause damage to living cells and tissues, making ionizing radiation a potential health hazard. There are two main types of ionizing radiation: electromagnetic … Read more
I. What is a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)? A Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) is a type of nuclear reactor that uses water as both a coolant and a moderator. It is one of the most common types of nuclear reactors used for generating electricity. PWRs are known for their safety and reliability, making them a … Read more
I. What is a Nuclear Facility? A nuclear facility is a complex industrial site where nuclear reactions are used to generate electricity, produce medical isotopes, or conduct research. These facilities typically house nuclear reactors, which are used to initiate and control nuclear reactions. Nuclear facilities are highly regulated and require specialized training and expertise to … Read more
