Light water nuclear reactors use which of the following as a moderator?
AOrdinary water (H2O) ✓ Correct
BGraphite
CHeavy water (D2O)
DPressurized water
Correct answer: (A) Ordinary water (H2O)
Explanation
Light water reactors use ordinary water as both coolant and neutron moderator.
Graphite serves as moderator in some other reactor designs, not the light water type.
Heavy water is the moderator in pressurised heavy water reactors, a different family.
Pressurised water names a reactor configuration, not the moderating substance itself.
In light water reactors it is the ordinary water that slows the neutrons.
Because ordinary water absorbs some neutrons, these reactors need enriched uranium fuel.
Want more like this? Create a free account to practise a full test, track your progress, and get spaced-repetition review.
Practise on Mcqkart →🎓 Book an expert →