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Aims :

• The purpose of this title is to give a qualitative understanding of reactor behaviour using simplified assumptions on neutron kinetics.

Objectives :
By the end of this course the student will be able to:

• Define Reactivity () and Delta k (k).
• List the units of reactivity used and relate them numerically.
• Define the terms Subcritical, Critical and Supercritical for a nuclear reactor in relation to reactivity and k.
• Sketch the graphs of neutron flux against time for a subcritical, critical and supercritical reactor.
• Understand the term Prompt Neutron Lifetime and its application to a graphite moderated reactor.
• Understand the term Delayed Neutron Lifetime.
• Predict the quantities of prompt and delayed neutrons for Magnox and AGR (graphite moderated U-235).
• Define the effective neutron lifetime (le) and explain the physical effect which makes a nuclear reactor controllable.
• Explain the effect, in a supercritical reactor, of progressively increasing reactivity or k on the neutron population, and hence reactor power.
• Define the terms: Prompt critical, Doubling time, Reactor period.
• Explain the normal range of values of Reactivity found in nuclear reactors.
• Learn more about the derivation and monitoring of Doubling time and Reactor period.

Course Modules:

Definitions Neutron Multiplication Prompt & Delayed Neutrons Effective Mean Neutron Lifetime Operational Values of Reactivity Appendix Assessment