Chapter 15 - Energy Resources (Alternative Sources) Flashcards
What is nuclear power comprised of?
Two different types of processes and are named fission and fusion.
What does fission refer to?
It refers to the splitting apart of atomic nuclei into smaller ones, with the release of energy.
What does fusion refer to?
It refers to the combining of smaller nuclei into larger ones, releasing energy.
What is the only nuclear power that is feasible at the moment?
Fission.
What is the most accurate way of describing the process of nuclear fission?
As a series of chain reactions that are controlled with a continuous, moderate release of energy.
Where can the majority of the known uranium deposits be found?
In sedimentary or metasedimentary rocks.
What is the most plentiful naturally occurring fission reactor fuel?
Uranium-235
Why would we want to reprocess already spent fuel?
In order to extract plutonium.
What is a breeder reactor capable of doing?
It is capable of maximizing the production of new fuel.
How do breeder reactors produce energy during operation?
Through fission, in a sustained chain reaction within the reactor core.
What is a loss-of-coolant event?
It is when the flow of cooling water to the core is interrupted.
What occurs in a core meltdown?
It is when the fuel and core materials deteriorate into a molten mass that may or may not melt its way out of the containment building.
Why is plant siting a problem?
Because siting plants close to urban areas puts more people potentially at risk.
What happens when a plant is decommissioned?
It must be taken out of operation, broken down, and most of the radioactive parts delivered to radioactive waste disposal sites.
How is solar energy dissipated throughout the Earth?
It is reflected into space, heats the atmosphere, land, and oceans.
