What is the role of the moderator in a nuclear reactor?
A) It releases neutrons.
B) It slows down neutrons.
C) It absorbs neutrons.
D) It reflects neutrons.

Question

What is the role of the moderator in a nuclear reactor? 
A) It releases neutrons. 
B) It slows down neutrons. 
C) It absorbs neutrons. 
D) It reflects neutrons.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The role of the moderator in a nuclear reactor is to slow down neutrons. This is necessary because only slower neutrons can cause fission in uranium-235 atoms, which is necessary for the sustained reaction in a nuclear reactor. The moderator typically consists of a material with a relatively low atomic mass, like water or graphite, which can interact with neutrons and slow them down through collisions.

What Is the Role of the Moderator in a Nuclear