Spent Nuclear Fuel – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Spent Nuclear Fuel? Spent nuclear fuel, also known as used nuclear fuel or irradiated nuclear fuel, is the radioactive byproduct generated during the operation of nuclear reactors. It consists of the fuel assemblies that have been used to produce energy through nuclear fission. These assemblies contain uranium or plutonium isotopes that have … Read more

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

I. What is Nuclear Safety? Nuclear safety refers to the measures and protocols put in place to ensure the safe operation of nuclear facilities, such as power plants and research reactors. These measures are designed to prevent accidents, minimize the impact of any accidents that do occur, and protect the health and safety of workers, … Read more

Nuclear Reactor Operator – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is a Nuclear Reactor Operator? A nuclear reactor operator is a highly skilled professional responsible for the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants. These individuals play a crucial role in ensuring that the reactor functions properly and that all safety protocols are followed. They are trained to monitor and control the … Read more

Nuclear Power Plant Design – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Nuclear Power Plant Design? Nuclear power plant design refers to the process of planning, constructing, and operating a facility that generates electricity through the use of nuclear reactions. These reactions typically involve the splitting of atoms in a process known as nuclear fission. The energy released during this process is used to … Read more

Nuclear Reactor Materials – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What are Nuclear Reactor Materials? Nuclear reactor materials are the materials used in the construction and operation of nuclear reactors. These materials play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of nuclear power plants. The selection of materials for nuclear reactors is based on their ability to withstand high temperatures, radiation … Read more

Passive Safety – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is Passive Safety in Nuclear Energy? Passive safety in nuclear energy refers to a set of safety features and systems designed to prevent or mitigate accidents in nuclear power plants without the need for human intervention or external power sources. These passive safety systems rely on natural physical processes such as gravity, convection, … Read more

Breeder Reactor – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is a Breeder Reactor? A breeder reactor is a type of nuclear reactor that is designed to produce more fissile material than it consumes. This is achieved by using fertile material, such as uranium-238 or thorium-232, as fuel, which can be converted into fissile material, such as plutonium-239 or uranium-233, through a process … Read more

Thermonuclear Reaction – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Nuclear Energy Glossary Terms

I. What is a Thermonuclear Reaction? A thermonuclear reaction is a type of nuclear reaction that takes place at extremely high temperatures, typically in the range of millions of degrees Celsius. These reactions involve the fusion of atomic nuclei to form heavier nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process. Thermonuclear reactions are … Read more

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

I. What is Radiation Hazard? Radiation hazard refers to the potential harm caused by exposure to ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation is a form of energy that can penetrate the human body and disrupt the normal functioning of cells. This type of radiation has enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, creating charged particles … Read more