Nuclear Power — Set 4
Technology · परमाणु ऊर्जा · Questions 31–40 of 50
Who is popularly known as the 'Father of Indian Nuclear Program'?
Correct Answer: D. Homi J. Bhabha
Dr. Homi J. Bhabha was the founding director of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). He envisioned a three-stage nuclear program to utilize India's thorium reserves. He served as the first chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India.
Which isotope is typically used in smoke detectors found in many homes?
Correct Answer: D. Americium-241
Americium-241 is a radioactive isotope that ionizes the air inside a smoke detector's chamber. When smoke particles enter, they disrupt this ionization, triggering the alarm. The amount used is very small and poses no risk to household residents.
Which Indian state hosts the Tarapur Atomic Power Station, the first in the country?
Correct Answer: D. Maharashtra
Tarapur Atomic Power Station was established in 1969 in Maharashtra with help from the USA. It initially used Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) before adding newer designs. This plant marked the beginning of nuclear power generation in India.
What is the 'Half-life' of a radioactive substance?
Correct Answer: B. The time taken for half the atoms to decay
Half-life is a fixed constant for each specific radioactive isotope. It can range from fractions of a second to billions of years depending on the element. This concept is vital for managing nuclear waste and using isotopes in medicine.
Which isotope of Uranium is the only naturally occurring fissile material found in significant quantities?
Correct Answer: B. Uranium-235
Uranium-235 is the only natural isotope capable of sustaining a fission chain reaction. It makes up approximately 0.7% of all natural uranium found on Earth. Most reactors require this isotope to be enriched to higher levels to function.
What is the primary fuel used in a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR)?
Correct Answer: B. Plutonium-239
Plutonium-239 is the primary fissile fuel used in FBRs because it releases more neutrons per fission at high energy. These reactors 'breed' more fuel by converting non-fissile U-238 into fissile Pu-239. This technology is a key part of India's second stage of nuclear development.
Which material is used as a moderator in a traditional nuclear reactor to slow down neutrons?
Correct Answer: A. Graphite
Graphite is an excellent moderator because it slows down neutrons without absorbing too many of them. It was used in early reactors and is still used in certain modern designs like the gas-cooled reactor. It allows neutrons to be at the correct speed to cause further fission.
In which city is the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) located?
Correct Answer: C. Vienna
The IAEA is based in Vienna, Austria, and acts as the world's intergovernmental forum for nuclear cooperation. It promotes the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies. It was famously proposed in the 'Atoms for Peace' speech.
Which particle is responsible for initiating the fission process in a nuclear reactor?
Correct Answer: C. Neutron
A neutron is fired at a heavy nucleus like Uranium-235, making it unstable and causing it to split. This split releases energy and more neutrons, continuing the chain reaction. Neutrons are effective because they have no charge and can easily penetrate the nucleus.
What is the main source of Uranium for India’s domestic nuclear energy needs?
Correct Answer: B. Jaduguda
Jaduguda in Jharkhand is home to India's first and most significant uranium mine. It is operated by the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL). The mine provides the raw material needed for fuel fabrication in the country.