What is the primary source of fuel that powers the reactor?

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The primary source of fuel that powers the reactor in many naval applications, including those used in surface warfare vessels, is Uranium 235. This isotope of uranium is favored because it can undergo fission when it absorbs a neutron, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process. This energy is harnessed to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate propulsion and electricity for various shipboard systems.

Uranium 235 is rare compared to other isotopes of uranium, making up only about 0.7% of natural uranium; however, it is the isotope that is enriched for use in nuclear reactors. The presence of neutrons, combined with the ability of Uranium 235 to sustain a chain reaction, makes it an ideal fuel source for generating the power needed to operate a naval reactor efficiently.

In contrast, while Plutonium 239 and Thorium 232 have been researched for use in nuclear processes, and Uranium 238 contributes to breeding processes or can be used in certain types of reactors, Uranium 235 is the primary fuel for many naval reactors. This is due to its suitability for maintaining the critical chain reaction necessary for continuous and stable power output in military naval applications.

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