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KCET · Physics · Nuclear Physics

In a nuclear reactor heavy nuclei is not used as moderators because

  1. A they will break up
  2. B elastic collision of neutrons with heavy nuclei will not slow them down
  3. C the net weight of the reactor would be unbearably high
  4. D substance with heavy nuclei do not occur in liquid or gaseous state at room temperature
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Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(B) elastic collision of neutrons with heavy nuclei will not slow them down

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

The moderator used in nuclear reactor, have light nuclei (like proton). When protons undergo perfectly elastic collision with the neutrons emitted, their velocities are exchanged i.e. neutrons. Heavy nuclei will not serve the purpose because elastic collision of neutrons with heavy nuclei will not slow them down.