Introduction to Nuclear Engineering: Chain Reactions and Fuel Cycles

This lecture covers the fundamentals of nuclear engineering, focusing on chain reactions and the nuclear fuel cycle. Topics include the characteristics of nuclear reactions, the importance of delayed neutrons, and the factors affecting the criticality of a reactor. The lecture also delves into the concept of the multiplication factor, neutron balance, and the criticality condition. Additionally, it explores the different types of reactors, such as critical and supercritical reactors, and the role of moderators in slowing down neutrons. The lecture concludes with an overview of fuel cycles, including the U238/U235 cycle and the concept of breeding ratios.