I. What is a Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA)? A Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA) is a serious event that can occur in a nuclear power plant when there is a sudden loss of coolant from the reactor core. Coolant, usually water, is essential for removing heat generated by the nuclear fission process in the … Read more
I. What is Nuclear Safety Culture? Nuclear safety culture refers to the attitudes, behaviors, and values that prioritize safety in the operation of nuclear facilities. It encompasses the shared beliefs and practices that guide individuals and organizations in ensuring the safe and secure operation of nuclear power plants, research reactors, and other nuclear facilities. A … Read more
I. What is a Radiation Detector? A radiation detector is a device used to detect, measure, and monitor the presence of radiation in a given area. Radiation can come in many forms, including alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays. These forms of radiation can be harmful to humans and the environment if not … Read more
I. What is Deuterium? Deuterium is a stable isotope of hydrogen, with an atomic mass of 2. It is commonly represented as 2H or D. Deuterium contains one proton and one neutron in its nucleus, making it heavier than the more common isotope of hydrogen, which only contains a single proton. Deuterium is found naturally … Read more
I. What is Criticality in Nuclear Energy? Criticality in nuclear energy refers to the state in which a nuclear reactor sustains a self-sustaining chain reaction. This critical state is essential for the generation of nuclear power, as it allows for the controlled release of energy through the fission of uranium atoms. Without criticality, a nuclear … Read more
I. What is Subcritical Nuclear Reactor? A subcritical nuclear reactor is a type of nuclear reactor that operates below the critical point of a nuclear chain reaction. In other words, it does not sustain a self-sustaining chain reaction on its own and requires an external source of neutrons to keep the reaction going. This makes … Read more
I. What is a radioisotope? Radioisotopes are unstable forms of elements that emit radiation as they decay into more stable forms. These radioactive isotopes have an unstable nucleus, which causes them to release energy in the form of alpha, beta, or gamma radiation. This process is known as radioactive decay, and it can result in … Read more
I. What is a radiation leak? Radiation leaks are incidents in which radioactive material escapes from its containment and enters the surrounding environment. This can occur in various settings, including nuclear energy facilities, medical facilities, and industrial sites that use radioactive materials. Radiation leaks can pose serious health risks to individuals exposed to the radiation, … Read more
I. What is a Radioactive Spill? A radioactive spill refers to the accidental release of radioactive materials into the environment. These spills can occur in various settings, including nuclear power plants, research facilities, medical institutions, and industrial sites that handle radioactive substances. Radioactive spills pose serious risks to human health and the environment due to … Read more
I. What is a Reactor Vessel? A reactor vessel is a key component of a nuclear power plant that houses the reactor core where nuclear reactions take place. It is a large, cylindrical steel container that is designed to contain and control the nuclear reactions that generate heat to produce steam, which in turn drives … Read more
