NUCL 3820U – Nuclear Reactor Kinetics

An introduction to the basic principles of nuclear reactor kinetics and nuclear reactor control. Topics include: neutron cycle; reactor period; prompt and delayed neutrons; source neutron effects; sub-critical, critical and supercritical reactor; point reactor model; thermal power and neutron power; fission product poisoning; Xenon override capability; fresh and equilibrium fuel characteristics; reactivity effects of temperature changes and coolant voiding; reactivity control; approach to critical; reactor stability; spatial flux and power distribution. Reactor simulators will be used to illustrate the key principles being taught.
Formerly: ENGR 3820U
Credit hours: 3
Lecture hours: 3
Tutorial hours: 1
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 2500U or NUCL 2500U, MATH 2860U or ENGR 0103U