Question
GSMediumPrelims 2011Science & Technology

The function of heavy water in a nuclear reactor is to -

Explanation

Heavy water (D2OD_2O) acts as a moderator in a nuclear reactor. Its primary function is to slow down the high-speed neutrons produced during the nuclear fission process. By reducing the kinetic energy of these neutrons, they are converted into 'thermal neutrons,' which have a significantly higher probability of triggering further fission in the nuclear fuel (such as Uranium-235), thereby sustaining a controlled chain reaction.

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