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RJ Emery
- 113
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Suppose one had on hand a supply of plutonium. Suppose also one wished to render it harmless. By what nuclear reactions could plutonium be made into something relatively benign?
Plutonium can be converted into a harmless substance through a process called transmutation, where the nucleus of the plutonium atom is altered to produce a different and less radioactive element.
The main benefit of converting plutonium is reducing its radioactivity, making it less harmful to humans and the environment. This can also help in the disposal of nuclear waste and decrease the risk of nuclear accidents.
The two main methods used for converting plutonium are thermal neutron-induced fission and accelerator-driven systems. Thermal neutron-induced fission involves bombarding the plutonium with neutrons, while accelerator-driven systems use high-energy particles to induce nuclear reactions.
While converting plutonium can reduce its radioactivity, it is still a complex and potentially hazardous process. Proper safety measures and protocols must be followed to ensure the safety of the scientists and the environment.
The main challenge in converting plutonium is the high cost and technological complexity of the process. It also requires highly skilled and trained personnel to handle the radioactive materials involved. Additionally, there may be political and ethical considerations surrounding the use of nuclear energy and the disposal of nuclear waste.