What device is commonly used to separate U-238 and U-235 during enrichment?

What device is commonly used to separate U-238 and U-235 during enrichment?

• A. Diffusion barrier
• B. Centrifuge
• C. Electromagnetic separator
• D. Laser isotope separation

Answer: (B)

Isotope separation relies on the small mass difference between U-235 and U-238. In a gas centrifuge, uranium hexafluoride gas is spun at very high speeds. The centrifugal force pushes the heavier molecules (favoring U-238) more toward the outer wall, while the lighter molecules (favoring U-235) remain nearer the center. By pulling off streams from different radial positions, a slight enrichment of U-235 is achieved. Because the separation per stage is modest, many centrifuges are arranged in cascades to build up significant enrichment. This method is favored over older diffusion barriers, electromagnetic separators, or laser-based methods because it is more energy-efficient and scalable for large-scale production, making it the device commonly used for enrichment.

Isotope separation relies on the small mass difference between U-235 and U-238. In a gas centrifuge, uranium hexafluoride gas is spun at very high speeds. The centrifugal force pushes the heavier molecules (favoring U-238) more toward the outer wall, while the lighter molecules (favoring U-235) remain nearer the center. By pulling off streams from different radial positions, a slight enrichment of U-235 is achieved. Because the separation per stage is modest, many centrifuges are arranged in cascades to build up significant enrichment. This method is favored over older diffusion barriers, electromagnetic separators, or laser-based methods because it is more energy-efficient and scalable for large-scale production, making it the device commonly used for enrichment.