A loss-of-accident (LOCA),as in the Fukushima Daiichi plant

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A loss-of-accident (LOCA) refers to an unexpected reduction or loss of coolant in a nuclear power plant. In the case of Fukushima Daiichi, the LOCA resulted in the failure of the cooling system, which led to the meltdown of fuel rods and the release of radioactive materials into the environment. While a LOCA does not cause a nuclear explosion, it can result in a steam explosion if not corrected, as the loss of coolant can cause the temperature to rise and produce high-pressure steam, which can damage the containment structure and release radiation. The nuclear reactions in the core are automatically shut down during a LOCA, but this does not prevent the generation of heat, which must be removed by the cooling system to prevent damage to the fuel rods.

A Loss-Of-Accident (LOCA),as in the Fukushima Daiichi Plant