PLUTONIUM REACTORS Meaning and
Definition
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Plutonium reactors are a type of nuclear reactor that uses plutonium-239 as its primary fuel source. Plutonium-239 is a radioactive element that is manufactured by bombarding uranium-238 with neutrons in a nuclear reactor. These reactors are designed to utilize the high energy potential of plutonium-239 to generate heat, which is then converted into electricity using a turbine and generator system.
Plutonium reactors operate by inducing a controlled nuclear fission chain reaction within the fuel. In this process, the plutonium-239 atoms split into smaller fragments, releasing a tremendous amount of energy in the form of heat. This heat is absorbed by a coolant, typically water, which flows through the reactor core and carries the thermal energy to a steam generator. The steam produced is then used to drive a turbine, which in turn spins an electrical generator to generate electricity.
These reactors are characterized by their ability to sustain a self-sustaining chain reaction, known as criticality, by using plutonium-239. They are designed with various safety features and control mechanisms to regulate the reaction and prevent any potential accidents. Plutonium reactors have been used in some experimental and research nuclear power plants, offering an alternative to reactors that primarily utilize uranium as fuel.
Plutonium reactors have been criticized for their association with the production of weapons-grade plutonium, which can be used in nuclear weapons. However, with proper safeguards and international regulations, the application of plutonium reactors can be restricted to peaceful and controlled uses to generate electricity for civilian purposes.
Common Misspellings for PLUTONIUM REACTORS
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Etymology of PLUTONIUM REACTORS
The word "plutonium" is derived from the planet Pluto, named after the Roman god of the underworld. The element plutonium was discovered in 1940 by scientists Glenn T. Seaborg, Edwin McMillan, Joseph W. Kennedy, and Arthur C. Wahl. They named the element after the recently discovered planet Pluto, as plutonium was considered to be a "heavier" element beyond uranium, much like Pluto being situated further away from Earth in the solar system.
The term "reactor" comes from the verb "react", which means to respond or behave in a particular way under certain conditions. In the scientific context, a reactor refers to a device or structure designed to initiate, control, or sustain nuclear reactions, typically used for producing nuclear energy.
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