Nuclear reactors (intro)
Nuclear Chemistry · Chemistry
Molecule viewer
Interactive 3DBall-and-stick models with true bond angles — switch molecule to compare shapes.
Controls
Drag the sliders or type a value — the simulation updates live.
Study notes
Why did Chernobyl explode? Use reactor physics. Step 1: RBMK design had positive void coefficient — steam bubbles INCREASED reactivity. Step 2: Operators ran a test at low power with safety systems disabled. Step 3: Power surged; steam voids multiplied reactivity → runaway. Step 4: Control rods had graphite tips that briefly ADDED reactivity. Lesson: k must stay exactly 1; design must be inherently stable.