How do operators ensure consistent power production in a reactor when fuel burnup changes the core composition over time?

Operators ensure consistent power production in a reactor, despite fuel burnup changing the core composition over time, through a combination of control systems, monitoring, and fuel management strategies. Fuel burnup refers to the depletion of fissile isotopes, such as Uranium-235, and the buildup of fission products within the fuel as the reactor operates. This changes the core's reactivity, or its ability to sustain a chain reaction. Control rods are used to adjust the reactivity of the core and maintain a desired power level. As fuel....