Question

What is the purpose of enrichment in the preparation of fuel rods? How is it accomplished?

Short answer

The fuel rod's content of ${}^{\text{235}}\text{U}$is enhanced to $\text{3 - 4\%}$through continual extraction and separation. This is to keep a chain reaction going to generate more energy.

Step-by-step solution

Purpose of enrichment in the preparation of fuel rods

To ensure a better chain reaction, enriched fissionable fuel is necessary in the fuel rods. The naturally occurring${}^{\text{235}}\text{U}$is present in only$0.7\%$concentration. This element is constantly extracted and separated until it achieves a concentration range from$\text{3 - 4 \%.}$

Hence The ${}^{\text{235}}\text{U}$content of the fuel rod is increased to $\text{3 - 4 \%}$through constant extract and separation. This is to sustain a chain reaction to generate more energy.