Light water nuclear reactors use the following moderator:

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UGC NET Paper 1: Held on 3rd Mar 2023 Shift 2

Answer 1

The correct answer is Ordinary water H2O.

Key Points Ordinary water H2O.

A nuclear reactor is a device that harnesses the energy released during nuclear fission to produce heat, which is then converted into electricity. In a nuclear fission reaction, the nucleus of an atom is split into two smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the process.
This reaction is sustained through a chain reaction, where the neutrons released during fission can cause further fission reactions in other atoms.
To sustain a chain reaction, it is necessary to slow down the fast neutrons produced during fission. F
ast neutrons are less likely to cause additional fission reactions, so they need to be moderated, or slowed down, to increase their probability of causing further fission.
In light water nuclear reactors, ordinary water (H2O) is used as both a coolant and a moderator. The water circulates through the reactor core, absorbing the heat generated by the fission reactions and carrying it away.
At the same time, the water acts as a moderator by slowing down the fast neutrons.