Question

The function of the reflectors in nuclear power plant is that:
A. It reflects the neutrons that are escaping from the case.
B. It reflects the radiation escaping the case of the reactor.
C. Both (A) and (B)
D. It accelerates the reaction.

Answer 1

Nuclear power plants are the area where electricity is produced by the help of nuclear chain reactions. Reaction occurs in a nuclear reactor in which fission and fusion of nuclear particles occur in an uncontrolled manner. The main function of the reactor is to control this uncontrolled reaction by several parts and techniques.

Complete answer:
Nuclear fission is the reaction of splitting of unstable particles until they achieve a stable form, along with emission of high speed neutrons and a very high amount of energy. These neutrons will be further re-used by reactors to break down other particles.Fission in nuclear power plants emits a high amount of heat energy which is converted into electric energy by the reactor itself. Reactor requires Uranium or Plutonium fuel for its working.

Besides fuel point and place of reaction, a nuclear reactor contains a material surrounding its surface called Reflectors.These are the safety features of nuclear power plants that prevent leaking of fission reactions from the reactor. As fission reactions emit high speed and excessive amounts of neutrons, there remain chances of leakage in these high amounts of neutrons.

So here comes a reflector that scatters these unnecessarily emitted neutrons, most neutrons back to the chamber for more collisions. It also helps in improving the efficiency of the reactor. It also absorbs some of the emitted neutrons, preventing their collision outside the chamber.As the name suggests, the reflector reflects the neutron and escapes energy or radiation back to the chamber.

Hence the option C is correct.

Note: Heat energy evolved in fission is passed over cool water that produces steam on contact with heat. This steam is then used to propel turbines and propelling turbines produce energy by generator technique. Fission and fusion both are highly dangerous reactions and only experts are allowed to handle them with special wearing.