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Question: Answered & Verified by Expert
In a nuclear reactor, U235 undergoes Fission liberating 200 MeV of energy. The reactor has a 10% efficiency and produces 1000 MW power. If the reactor is to function for 10 yr, find the total mass of uranium required.
PhysicsNuclear PhysicsNEET
Options:
  • A 38470
  • B 38490
  • C 48490
  • D 48470
Solution:
2610 Upvotes Verified Answer
The correct answer is: 38470
The reactor produces 1000 MW power or 109J/s. The reactor is to function for 10 yr. Therefore, total energy which the reactor will supply in 10 yr is

E = (power) (time)

= (109J/s) (10 x 365 x 24 x 3600s)

= 3. 1536 x 1017 J

But since the efficiency of the reactor is only 10%, therefore actual energy needed is 10 times of it or 3. 1536 x 1018 J. One uranium atom liberates 200 MeV of energy or 200 x 1. 6 x 10-13 J or 3. 2 x 10-11 J of energy. So, number of uranium atoms needed are

3.1536×10183.2×10-11=0.9855×1029

or number of kg - moles of uranium needed are

n=0.9855×10296.02×1026=163.7

Hence, total mass of uranium required is

m = (n)M

or = (163. 7) (235) kg

or m = 38470 kg

or m = 38470 kg

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