Solve Diffusion Equation for Neutron Flux in Multiplying Sphere

  • Thread starter Thread starter EngNewbit
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Diffusion Theory
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the diffusion equation for neutron flux in a multiplying sphere with a radius R and a constant distributed source strength Q (neutrons/cm³/s). The solution requires writing the diffusion equation in spherical coordinates, applying boundary conditions that the flux φ is finite at the origin (r = 0) and zero at the sphere's surface (r = R). The final expression for neutron flux when k inf = 1 is derived as (Q/6D)(R² − r²), demonstrating the relationship between source strength, diffusion coefficient D, and spatial variables.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diffusion equations in physics
  • Knowledge of neutron flux concepts
  • Familiarity with spherical coordinates
  • Basic principles of boundary conditions in differential equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the diffusion equation in spherical coordinates
  • Explore the implications of boundary conditions on solutions
  • Learn about neutron transport theory and its applications
  • Investigate the role of the diffusion coefficient D in neutron flux calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in nuclear engineering, physicists working with neutron transport, and anyone involved in solving diffusion equations in multiphysics contexts.

EngNewbit
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
This is in the beginning of a long set of problems, and I am lost. I don't get anything like this answer. Any guidance? I have a feeling its simple but haven't done much of these.

Write down the diffusion equation for the neutron flux in a multiplying sphere of radius R containing a constant distributed source of strength Q neutrons/cm3/s. Assuming that the flux vanishes at the sphere surface and that it remains finite at the origin:
Solve the diffusion equation when k inf = 1 and show that the neutron flux is given by:
(Q/6D)(R^2 − r^2)
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
One has to write the diffusion equation (in spherical coordinates) with a constant, distributed source, and apply the boundary conditions, that the flux \phi is finite at r = 0, and 0 at r = R.

The current should also be 0 at r = 0.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
6K
Replies
6
Views
7K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
0
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K