Question

during a heat wave, there is an increased demand for electricity to operate air conditioners. the basic design of a nuclear reactor that generates electricity is shown below. what is the best way for the power plant manager to modify the reactor to meet the demand for electricity? lower the control rods, which will absorb more neutrons before they can split atoms raise the control rods so that fewer neutrons are absorbed and more can split uranium atoms remove some of the fuel rods, which will leave more room for additional neutrons to split atoms add additional fuel rods to generate additional neutrons to split uranium atoms

Explanation:

Step1: Understand nuclear reactor operation

Nuclear fission in fuel rods generates electricity. Control rods regulate reaction rate by absorbing neutrons.

Step2: Analyze each option

Lowering control rods absorbs more neutrons, slowing reaction (not for increased demand). Removing fuel rods reduces fuel for fission. Adding fuel rods is not simple and may have safety - issues. Raising control rods allows more neutrons to cause fission, increasing power output.

Answer:

raise the control rods so that fewer neutrons are absorbed and more can split uranium atoms