Nuclear Power — Set 2
Technology · परमाणु ऊर्जा · Questions 11–20 of 50
Which country currently generates the highest percentage of its electricity from nuclear power (nearly 70%)?
Correct Answer: D. France
France adopted a strong nuclear energy policy following the 1970s oil crisis. It is now a leading global exporter of nuclear technology and electricity. This dependence has made France one of the lowest carbon-emitting developed nations.
What is the name of the international project aimed at building the world's largest experimental fusion reactor?
Correct Answer: A. ITER
ITER stands for International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor and is located in France. It aims to prove that nuclear fusion can be a viable source of limitless energy. Seven major partners, including India and the USA, are collaborating on this project.
Which radioactive gas is often produced as a byproduct of natural uranium decay in soil and can seep into buildings?
Correct Answer: A. Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in rocks. It can accumulate in basements and is a known health risk if inhaled over long periods. Proper ventilation is the primary method used to reduce indoor radon levels.
What is the term for the process where a fertile material like Uranium-238 is converted into a fissile material?
Correct Answer: C. Transmutation
Transmutation occurs when a nucleus captures a neutron and changes into a different element or isotope. For example, non-fissile U-238 can be transmuted into fissile Plutonium-239 in a breeder reactor. This process significantly increases the amount of usable fuel available for energy.
Which organization serves as the world's 'Nuclear Watchdog' to promote peaceful use of atomic energy?
Correct Answer: C. IAEA
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was established in 1957 and is based in Vienna. It monitors nuclear facilities to ensure that nuclear materials are not diverted for military purposes. The agency also provides technical assistance for medical and agricultural applications of radiation.
What type of radiation has the highest penetrating power and requires thick lead shielding?
Correct Answer: C. Gamma rays
Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic waves that can pass through most materials. They are emitted during the fission process and from many radioactive isotopes. Heavy shielding like several feet of concrete or lead is required to block them safely.
Which Indian nuclear power plant is the largest in terms of capacity?
Correct Answer: D. Kudankulam
Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is located in Tamil Nadu and uses Russian VVER-1000 reactors. It is currently the highest capacity nuclear station in the country. The plant is designed to incorporate advanced safety features known as 'Generation III+' technology.
What is 'Criticality' in the context of a nuclear reactor?
Correct Answer: A. The state of a self-sustaining chain reaction
Criticality is achieved when the number of neutrons produced by fission exactly balances the number lost or absorbed. In this state, the reactor maintains a constant power level. It is the normal operating condition for a functional power plant.
Which material is used as a coolant in a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR)?
Correct Answer: C. Liquid Sodium
Liquid sodium is used because it has excellent heat transfer properties and does not slow down neutrons. FBRs are designed to 'breed' more fuel than they consume by utilizing U-238. India has an experimental Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) at Kalpakkam.
What is the primary difference between a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) and a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)?
Correct Answer: A. PWR prevents water from boiling in the core
In a PWR, the water is kept under high pressure to prevent it from boiling despite reaching very high temperatures. This hot water then transfers heat to a secondary loop to create steam. In a BWR, the water is allowed to boil directly within the reactor core to drive the turbine.