In a fast breeder atomic reactor

Options

A. fast neutrons converts natural uranium into fissionable fuel and released energy
B. thermal neutrons cause fission of enriched uranium and released energy
C. Fast neutrons cause fission of enriched uranium and release more energy
D. thermal neutrons cause fission of natural uranium and produce energy

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Fast Breeder Reactors:**
- Fast breeder reactors are designed to use fast neutrons to sustain a nuclear reaction. Unlike thermal reactors, they do not slow down the neutrons. Instead, they utilize high-speed neutrons to induce fission in certain types of nuclear fuel.

2. **Fuel Used in Fast Breeder Reactors:**
- The primary fuel used in fast breeder reactors is usually uranium-235 (U-235) or plutonium-239 (Pu-239). These isotopes are capable of sustaining a fission chain reaction when bombarded with fast neutrons.

3. **Fission Process:**
- In a fast breeder reactor, when fast neutrons collide with the nuclei of U-235 or Pu-239, fission occurs. This fission process releases a significant amount of energy and also produces additional neutrons, which can go on to induce further fission in other nuclei.

4. **Energy Generation:**
- The energy released during the fission process is harnessed to generate electricity. Fast breeder reactors are designed to produce more fissile material than they consume, which is a key characteristic of their operation.

5. **Evaluating the Options:**
- Now, let’s evaluate the options provided in the question:
- **Option 1:** Fast neutrons convert natural uranium into feasible fuel and release energy? **(Incorrect)**
- Natural uranium primarily consists of U-238, which is not easily fissionable with fast neutrons.
- **Option 2:** Thermal neutrons cause fission of enriched uranium and release energy? **(Incorrect)**
- While thermal neutrons can cause fission in U-235, this is not the operation mode of fast breeder reactors.
- **Option 3:** Fast neutrons cause fission of enriched uranium and release more energy? **(Correct)**
- This accurately describes the operation of fast breeder reactors, where fast neutrons induce fission in enriched uranium, resulting in significant energy release.

6. **Conclusion:**
- The correct option is that fast neutrons cause fission of enriched uranium and release more energy.

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