Boiling-water reactor meaning

A boiling-water reactor is a type of nuclear reactor in which water boils directly in the reactor core to produce steam for electricity generation.


Boiling-water reactor definitions

Word backwards retaw-gniliob rotcaer
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "boiling-water reactor" is a noun.
Syllabic division boil-ing-wa-ter re-ac-tor
Plural The plural form of the term "boiling-water reactor" is "boiling-water reactors."
Total letters 19
Vogais (4) o,i,a,e
Consonants (8) b,l,n,g,w,t,r,c

Boiling-Water Reactor

Boiling-water reactors (BWRs) are a type of nuclear reactor that use water as both a coolant and a moderator. This type of reactor is known for its simplicity in design and operation, making it a popular choice for generating electricity.

How Does a Boiling-Water Reactor Work?

In a boiling-water reactor, water is heated in the reactor core to produce steam. This steam then drives turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. Unlike pressurized-water reactors, where the water is kept under high pressure to prevent boiling, in a BWR, the water actually boils in the core.

Safety Features of Boiling-Water Reactors

Boiling-water reactors have several safety features to prevent accidents and mitigate the consequences of any malfunction. These include control rods that can be inserted into the core to stop the nuclear reaction, as well as emergency core cooling systems to keep the core from overheating.

Advantages of Boiling-Water Reactors

One of the main advantages of boiling-water reactors is their simplicity. The fact that water both cools the reactor and moderates the nuclear reaction simplifies the design and operation of the reactor. Additionally, BWRs can be refueled while still in operation, leading to higher overall efficiency.

Overall, boiling-water reactors play a significant role in the generation of electricity through nuclear power. Their design, safety features, and efficiency make them a reliable source of clean energy in many parts of the world.


Boiling-water reactor Examples

  1. The boiling-water reactor at the nuclear power plant was shut down for maintenance.
  2. The design of a boiling-water reactor allows for more direct transfer of heat to water.
  3. A unique feature of a boiling-water reactor is the generation of steam directly in the reactor core.
  4. The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster involved multiple boiling-water reactors.
  5. Boiling-water reactors are known for their simplicity in design compared to pressurized-water reactors.
  6. The cooling system of a boiling-water reactor is crucial for safe operation.
  7. The steam produced by a boiling-water reactor is used to drive turbines for electricity generation.
  8. Boiling-water reactors use enriched uranium as fuel for nuclear reactions.
  9. Maintaining proper water levels in a boiling-water reactor is essential for preventing overheating.
  10. The containment structure of a boiling-water reactor is designed to withstand extreme conditions.


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  • Updated 20/05/2024 - 11:21:02