Which term describes non-radioactive material that becomes radioactive after exposure to neutron radiation?

• A. Nuclear fuel
• B. Reactor coolant
• C. Activated Corrosion Products
• D. Plant components

Answer: (C)

Activation occurs when stable atoms absorb neutrons and become radioactive. In a reactor, corrosion products shed from metal surfaces enter the coolant and are initially non-radioactive. When these corrosion products absorb neutrons, they turn into radioactive isotopes. This specific situation is described as activated corrosion products. That’s why this term is the best fit: it precisely refers to corrosion-derived materials that become radioactive after neutron exposure. Nuclear fuel is already radioactive, and while reactor coolant and plant components can become activated, the phrase activated corrosion products directly captures the idea of non-radioactive corrosion-derived material turning radioactive due to neutron irradiation.