What are the Challenges in Controlling Nuclear Fission?
Controlling nuclear fission requires precise management of neutron flux and reaction rates, akin to controlling the concentration of a catalyst in a chemical reaction. Challenges include: - Maintaining Reactor Stability: Ensuring the chain reaction remains steady and does not escalate uncontrollably. - Heat Management: Efficiently dissipating the enormous amounts of heat generated to prevent reactor meltdown. - Waste Handling: Managing radioactive waste and by-products that remain hazardous for thousands of years.