The nuclear reactor

Nuclear reactors are facilities in which a controlled chain reaction is implemented using some fissile material. In most cases the fast neutrons produced from fission are slowed down using a moderator. The majority of the energy released in fission is taken by the fission products or fragments as kinetic energy. Upon collisions with atoms of the fuel the fission fragments loose this energy and thus heat is produced, which is transported with the aid of some coolant. Absorber rods are applied to regulate the number of neutrons and thus the reactor power.