Definition

Noun: A device that initiates and controls a self-sustaining nuclear fission chain reaction to generate energy (heat), typically for the purpose of producing electricity. It is the core component of a nuclear power station.

Usage

The term "atomic reactor" is used to describe the physical installation where nuclear fission occurs. It is often used interchangeably with "nuclear reactor," though "atomic reactor" is a slightly older term.

Examples: * The new power plant will be powered by an atomic reactor. * Scientists are monitoring the atomic reactor's core temperature. * The submarine is equipped with a compact atomic reactor for propulsion.

Advanced Usage

• "to go critical": This phrase describes the moment when an atomic reactor achieves a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction.
  • The reactor went critical at 3:47 AM, marking the start of power generation.

Variants and Related Words

• Nuclear reactor (n): The more modern and commonly used synonym for atomic reactor.
• Reactor core (n): The central region of an atomic reactor containing the nuclear fuel and where the fission reaction takes place.
• Fission reactor (n): A more technically precise term specifying the reaction type.

Synonyms

• Nuclear reactor
• Fission reactor
• Pile (archaic/informal)

Related Phrases

• Reactor vessel: The robust container that holds the reactor core and coolant.
• Reactor coolant: The substance (often water, gas, or liquid metal) used to transfer heat from the reactor core.
• Control rods: Rods made of neutron-absorbing material inserted into the reactor core to control the rate of the fission reaction.

Noun

1. a nuclear reactor that uses controlled nuclear fission to generate energy