Nuclear Fuel Cycle
The nuclear fuel cycle refers to the series of processes involved in producing electricity from nuclear energy. It starts with mining uranium, which is then enriched to increase its fissile material. This enriched uranium is formed into fuel rods and used in nuclear reactors to generate heat, producing steam that drives turbines for electricity. After the fuel is used, it becomes radioactive waste. The cycle includes managing this waste through storage or recycling methods. Overall, the nuclear fuel cycle encompasses the entire journey of nuclear fuel, from extraction to consumption and waste management.
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The nuclear fuel cycle refers to the series of steps involved in using nuclear energy to generate electricity. It starts with mining uranium, the primary fuel, which is then processed and enriched to increase its energy content. The enriched uranium is fabricated into fuel rods that can be used in nuclear reactors to produce electricity. After the fuel is used, it becomes spent nuclear fuel, which can be either reprocessed for reuse or stored as high-level waste. The cycle also includes managing waste safely and ultimately decommissioning reactors at the end of their operating life.