Linear Vs. Exponential Doubling Time in a Breeder

In summary, doubling time refers to the time it takes for the fissile material in a reactor core to double, either under a constant flux (linear doubling time) or by removing each produced atom and placing it in a new core (exponential doubling time). The linear doubling time is the maximum amount of time it takes for the material to double, while the exponential doubling time is the minimum. However, there can be different interpretations of what doubling time means, such as the time for neutron flux to double.
  • #1
terryphi
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Hey Guys,

From my understanding, the linear doubling time of a reactor is the time which the fissile nuclides in the reactor core double under a constant flux.

The exponential doubling time of a reactor is the time it takes for the fissile material in a core to double if you take each atom that is produced out of the core as soon as it is produced and put it in a new core.

When I say double i mean in terms of the number of atoms, not mass or volume.

So, would it be correct to say, for a given breeder reactor, the linear doubling time is the maximum amount of time that it will take for the fissile material to double whereas the exponential doubling time is the minimum?

-TP
 
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  • #2
There can be multiple meanings to doubling time. To me, it means the time for neutron flux to double. Others may be able to comment on this post from 2013 about breeding.
 
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FAQ: Linear Vs. Exponential Doubling Time in a Breeder

1. What is the difference between linear and exponential doubling time in a breeder?

Linear doubling time refers to the constant rate at which the number of organisms in a breeding population increases, while exponential doubling time refers to the rapid growth of a population due to continuous reproduction and lack of limiting factors.

2. How does the doubling time affect the growth of a breeder population?

The doubling time directly affects the growth rate of a breeder population. A shorter doubling time (exponential growth) means a faster increase in population size, while a longer doubling time (linear growth) means slower growth.

3. What factors influence the doubling time in a breeder population?

The doubling time in a breeder population can be influenced by several factors, including the reproductive rate of the organisms, availability of resources, and presence of limiting factors such as competition, predation, and disease.

4. How can the doubling time be calculated in a breeder population?

The doubling time can be calculated by dividing the natural logarithm of 2 by the growth rate of the population. This can be determined by measuring the change in population size over a specific time period.

5. Can the doubling time in a breeder population change over time?

Yes, the doubling time in a breeder population can change over time as environmental conditions and other factors change. For example, if there is a sudden increase in resources, the doubling time may decrease, leading to exponential growth. Similarly, if there is a decrease in resources or the introduction of limiting factors, the doubling time may increase, leading to slower growth.

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