meltdown (redirected from Meltdown (disambiguation))

meltdown

Occurrence in which a huge amount of thermal energy and radiation is released as a result of an uncontrolled chain reaction in a nuclear power reactor. The chain reaction that occurs in the reactor's core must be carefully regulated by control rods, which absorb neutrons, and a moderator, which reduces their energy. If the core becomes too hot, it can melt, releasing large amounts of radiation. See also Chernobyl accident.

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meltdown

The total cessation of operation of a computer system or network. A system meltdown can be caused by hardware or software. A network meltdown can be caused by hardware, software or excessive traffic.

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meltdown

(in a nuclear reactor) the melting of the fuel rods as a result of a defect in the cooling system, with the possible escape of radiation into the environment

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meltdown [′melt‚dau̇n]

(nucleonics)

An accident in a nuclear reactor in which melting of the fuel core occurs.

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meltdown - network meltdown