Purpose of the Centrifuge Extracts Uranium-235 (U-235) from natural uranium . U-235 is fissile, used in nuclear power and nuclear weapons ...
Purpose of the Centrifuge
Extracts Uranium-235 (U-235) from natural uranium.
U-235 is fissile, used in nuclear power and nuclear weapons.
Composition of Natural Uranium
99.3% U-238 (non-fissile).
0.7% U-235 (fissile).
Nuclear reactors require 3-20% U-235.
Nuclear weapons need ~90% U-235.
How the Centrifuge Works
Centrifugal force separates isotopes based on mass difference.
Process:
Uranium is converted to uranium hexafluoride (UF₆) gas.
Centrifuges spin at 50,000 RPM.
Denser U-238 moves outward, lighter U-235 collects in the centre.
U-235-rich portion is transferred to further centrifuges for more enrichment.
Centrifuge Construction
Spinning part is made of light yet strong materials like carbon fibre to withstand extreme motion.
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