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Which stage of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme focuses on achieving a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle using uranium-233 and thorium?
  • a)
    Stage 1 (PHWR)
  • b)
    Stage 2 (FBR)
  • c)
    Stage 3 (AHWR)
  • d)
    Stage 4 (Thorium Cycle)
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aniket Mehra answered
Overview of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme
India's nuclear power strategy is structured into three distinct stages, each designed to utilize different types of reactors and fuels. The ultimate aim is to achieve a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle, particularly focusing on the abundant thorium reserves in the country.
Stage 1: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR)
- Utilizes natural uranium as fuel.
- Produces plutonium which is critical for the next stage.
- Focuses on developing the infrastructure and technology for nuclear reactors.
Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBR)
- Uses plutonium-uranium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel.
- Aims to breed more fissile material (plutonium) than it consumes.
- Enhances the use of uranium resources, setting the stage for thorium utilization.
Stage 3: Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR)
- This stage focuses on utilizing uranium-233 and thorium.
- Aims to achieve a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle by converting thorium into fissile uranium-233.
- Incorporates advanced safety features and aims for higher efficiency in fuel utilization.
- Represents a significant step towards utilizing India’s vast thorium reserves.
Importance of Stage 3
- Addresses energy security by capitalizing on thorium, which is more abundant in India than uranium.
- Supports long-term sustainability in nuclear energy production.
- Reduces reliance on imported fuels and enhances self-sufficiency.
In conclusion, Stage 3 of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme, through the Advanced Heavy Water Reactor, is pivotal in realizing a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle by effectively using uranium-233 derived from thorium.

What is the primary purpose of India's three-stage nuclear power program?
  • a)
    To develop nuclear weapons
  • b)
    To achieve complete energy independence
  • c)
    To promote international nuclear disarmament
  • d)
    To reduce the cost of nuclear energy
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The primary purpose of India's three-stage nuclear power program is not explicitly mentioned in the text, but it can be inferred that the program's main objective is to achieve energy independence by harnessing nuclear power for electricity generation. This is indicated by the mention of the program's stages involving the use of Uranium and Thorium as nuclear fuel in Indian Nuclear Power Reactors, which are essential for electricity generation.

What is the primary purpose of the first stage in India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme?
  • a)
    To produce uranium-233.
  • b)
    To achieve a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle.
  • c)
    To generate electricity using natural uranium.
  • d)
    To produce plutonium-239 for use in Fast Breeder Reactors.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Kaavya Gupta answered
Overview of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme
India’s Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme is a strategic initiative aimed at achieving energy security through the sustainable use of nuclear resources. Each stage serves a specific purpose, with the first stage focusing primarily on generating electricity.
Primary Purpose of the First Stage
The first stage revolves around the utilization of natural uranium to generate electricity.
Key Points:
- Natural Uranium Utilization: The first stage employs natural uranium as fuel in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). This allows India to leverage its indigenous uranium resources efficiently.
- Electricity Generation: The primary objective is to produce electricity, which is crucial for meeting the growing energy demands of the nation. The PHWRs are designed to maximize the output of electricity while ensuring safety.
- Foundation for Future Stages: This stage also serves as a foundational step for subsequent stages, where the byproducts of the first stage will be used to develop more advanced reactors, such as Fast Breeder Reactors in the second stage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the first stage of India’s nuclear power program is essential not just for immediate electricity generation using natural uranium but also for setting the stage for a more sustainable and self-sufficient nuclear energy system in the future. This strategic approach ultimately aims to achieve energy independence and enhance national security.

Which type of reactor uses plutonium-239 as fuel and converts uranium-238 into plutonium-239?
  • a)
    Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
  • b)
    Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)
  • c)
    Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
  • d)
    Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR)
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Simran Datta answered
Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR)
Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) use plutonium-239 as fuel and have the unique capability of converting uranium-238 into plutonium-239. This process is known as breeding, where fissile material is produced from non-fissile material.

How FBR Works
- FBRs use fast neutrons to sustain the nuclear chain reaction, unlike thermal reactors that use slow neutrons.
- Plutonium-239 is used as the primary fuel in FBRs, which is capable of sustaining the chain reaction efficiently.
- In the core of the reactor, fast neutrons convert uranium-238 into plutonium-239 through a process called breeding.
- The bred plutonium-239 can then be used as fuel in the reactor, creating a sustainable cycle of nuclear fuel production.

Advantages of FBRs
- FBRs have a higher fuel efficiency compared to traditional reactors, as they can utilize both fissile and fertile materials for energy production.
- These reactors produce less long-lived radioactive waste compared to other reactor types.
- FBR technology has the potential to help in closing the nuclear fuel cycle and reducing the amount of nuclear waste generated.
In conclusion, Fast Breeder Reactors play a crucial role in the future of nuclear energy production by utilizing plutonium-239 as fuel and converting uranium-238 into fissile material for sustained nuclear reactions.

What is the primary purpose of burnable poisons in a nuclear reactor?
  • a)
    To increase the reactor's power output.
  • b)
    To absorb excess neutrons and slow down the reaction.
  • c)
    To cool down the reactor core.
  • d)
    To enhance the fuel's enrichment.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
Burnable poisons in a nuclear reactor are used to absorb excess neutrons and slow down the reaction. They help in controlling and regulating the reactor's power output by compensating for the build-up of neutron absorbers in the fuel as it burns.

In the context of agriculture, what is the primary function of plant mutation breeding using radiation?
  • a)
    To increase the shelf life of harvested crops.
  • b)
    To create genetically modified organisms.
  • c)
    To enhance the natural process of genetic mutation.
  • d)
    To induce desirable traits in plants.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Anita Desai answered
The primary function of plant mutation breeding using radiation is to induce desirable traits in plants. Radiation exposure, such as gamma rays, is used to cause mutations in plant seeds or cuttings. These mutations can lead to the development of plants with improved characteristics, such as higher crop yields or resistance to pests.

What is the function of control rods in a nuclear reactor?
  • a)
    To absorb excess neutrons and slow down the reaction.
  • b)
    To generate heat for the primary coolant.
  • c)
    To produce steam directly for electricity generation.
  • d)
    To cool down the reactor core.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Manoj Ghoshal answered
Function of Control Rods in a Nuclear Reactor
Control rods play a crucial role in the operation and safety of nuclear reactors. Their primary function is to manage the nuclear fission process, ensuring that the reaction proceeds at a safe and controlled rate.
Key Functions of Control Rods:
- Absorption of Neutrons:
- Control rods are made from materials that have a high neutron absorption capacity, such as boron, cadmium, or hafnium.
- When inserted into the reactor core, these rods absorb excess neutrons that are produced during the fission process.
- Regulation of the Reaction:
- By absorbing neutrons, control rods reduce the number of neutrons available to continue the fission chain reaction.
- This helps in slowing down or halting the reaction if necessary, preventing overheating and potential meltdowns.
- Safety Mechanism:
- In emergency situations, control rods can be fully inserted into the reactor core to quickly stop the fission reaction.
- This safety feature is critical for maintaining the integrity of the reactor and ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment.
- Reactivity Control:
- The position of the control rods can be adjusted to fine-tune the reactor's power output.
- Lowering the rods increases neutron absorption, decreasing reactor power, while withdrawing them allows more neutrons to sustain the reaction, increasing power output.
In summary, control rods are essential for maintaining the balance of the nuclear fission process by absorbing excess neutrons, thus regulating the reaction rate and ensuring safe operation of the nuclear reactor.

What is the primary purpose of the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, mentioned in the text?
  • a)
    To regulate nuclear power generation in India
  • b)
    To promote international nuclear cooperation
  • c)
    To facilitate the export of nuclear technology
  • d)
    To encourage the use of renewable energy sources
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Vikram Verma answered
The primary purpose of the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, mentioned in the text, was to regulate nuclear power generation in India. It framed and implemented objectives related to the use of Uranium and Thorium as nuclear fuel in Indian Nuclear Power Reactors.

What is the primary purpose of using radioisotopes in agriculture?
  • a)
    To create radioactive fertilizers.
  • b)
    To control insect populations.
  • c)
    To enhance food production.
  • d)
    To increase the shelf life of food products.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
The primary purpose of using radioisotopes in agriculture is to enhance food production. Radioisotopes are used in plant mutation breeding, a process that exposes plant seeds or cuttings to radiation to induce mutations, resulting in plants with desirable traits. This technology has significantly increased crop yields in various regions, contributing to food security and improved nutrition. Radioisotopes are also used in food irradiation to kill bacteria, increase shelf life, and control pests in food products.

Which consumer product commonly utilizes the natural properties of radioisotopes for its functionality?
  • a)
    Televisions
  • b)
    Microwave ovens
  • c)
    Smoke detectors
  • d)
    Refrigerators
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
Smoke detectors commonly utilize the natural properties of radioisotopes. They contain a small amount of americium-241, a decay product of plutonium-241, which emits alpha particles. These alpha particles ionize the air and interrupt an electrical current when smoke enters the detector, triggering the alarm.

What is the main benefit of using nuclear power in submarines and nuclear-powered ships?
  • a)
    It reduces the cost of fuel.
  • b)
    It allows for longer periods at sea without refueling.
  • c)
    It minimizes environmental impact.
  • d)
    It provides faster propulsion.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepa Iyer answered
The main benefit of using nuclear power in submarines and nuclear-powered ships is that it allows for longer periods at sea without the need for refueling. Nuclear reactors provide a long-lasting and reliable source of propulsion, making them suitable for vessels that require extended missions and operational endurance.

In the field of nuclear medicine, what is the primary purpose of using radioactive iodine (I-131)?
  • a)
    To treat cancer and thyroid conditions
  • b)
    To diagnose bone fractures
  • c)
    To image the brain's activity
  • d)
    To create radioactive tracers for research
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

The primary purpose of using radioactive iodine (I-131) in nuclear medicine is to treat cancer and thyroid conditions. Radioactive iodine is selectively taken up by the thyroid gland, allowing for targeted radiation therapy to treat thyroid cancer and certain thyroid conditions.

Which radioisotope is widely used in diagnostic nuclear medicine due to its short half-life and low radiation dose to patients?
  • a)
    Uranium-235
  • b)
    Technetium-99m
  • c)
    Plutonium-241
  • d)
    Iodine-131
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Kavita Shah answered
Technetium-99m is widely used in diagnostic nuclear medicine due to its short half-life of six hours and its ability to provide images of various bodily processes with a low radiation dose to patients. This radioisotope is commonly used to indicate tumors and study the functioning of organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

What is the primary purpose of a nuclear reactor in a nuclear power plant?
  • a)
    To produce steam for heating purposes.
  • b)
    To control the release of energy from splitting atoms.
  • c)
    To convert water into electricity.
  • d)
    To cool down the reactor core.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepa Iyer answered
The primary purpose of a nuclear reactor in a nuclear power plant is to control the release of energy from splitting atoms, specifically certain elements like uranium, in order to generate heat. This heat is used to produce steam, which in turn drives turbines to generate electricity.

In a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR), at what temperature does the water in the core typically boil?
  • a)
    100°C
  • b)
    285°C
  • c)
    325°C
  • d)
    650°C
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Suresh Reddy answered
In a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR), the water in the core typically boils at around 285°C. This boiling water is used to drive turbines for electricity generation.

Which stage of India's three-stage nuclear power program involves the use of Pu-239 obtained from the first stage reactor operation?
  • a)
    Stage one
  • b)
    Stage two
  • c)
    Stage three
  • d)
    None of the stages involve Pu-239
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Vikram Verma answered
The second stage of India's three-stage nuclear power program involves the use of Pu-239 obtained from the first stage reactor operation as the fuel core in fast breeder reactors (FBR).

How are sterile insects used in agriculture to control pest populations?
  • a)
    By introducing sterile insects into natural populations.
  • b)
    By using genetically modified crops.
  • c)
    By applying chemical pesticides.
  • d)
    By using radioactive soil treatments.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) involves rearing large populations of insects that are sterilized through irradiation and then introducing these sterile insects into natural populations. The sterile insects remain sexually competitive but cannot produce offspring, effectively reducing pest populations. SIT is an environmentally-friendly pest management approach that has been successfully applied in agriculture for many years.

What is the main advantage of sterilizing medical products using gamma radiation over heat sterilization?
  • a)
    Gamma radiation sterilization is less expensive.
  • b)
    Heat sterilization is more effective.
  • c)
    Gamma radiation sterilization can be done after packaging.
  • d)
    Heat sterilization has no environmental impact.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Khatri answered
The main advantage of sterilizing medical products using gamma radiation is that it can be done after packaging. Unlike heat sterilization, which may damage heat-sensitive items, gamma radiation sterilization allows for the sterilization of packaged medical products without compromising their integrity. This method has a significant impact on ensuring the sterility of medical supplies.

What international agreement is mentioned in the text that aims to prohibit the production of highly-enriched Uranium and Plutonium?
  • a)
    Treaty on Outer Space
  • b)
    Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT)
  • c)
    Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT)
  • d)
    Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Kapoor answered
The international agreement mentioned in the text that aims to prohibit the production of highly-enriched Uranium and Plutonium is the Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT). It is proposed to restrict the production of key components of nuclear weapons.

Which structure is designed to protect a nuclear reactor from outside intrusion and to shield against radiation in case of a serious malfunction?
  • a)
    Steam generator
  • b)
    Fuel assembly
  • c)
    Control rods
  • d)
    Containment
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
The containment structure is designed to protect a nuclear reactor from outside intrusion and to shield against radiation in case of a serious malfunction. It is typically made of thick concrete and steel to provide a robust barrier.

Which type of reactor uses ordinary water as both a coolant and a moderator?
  • a)
    Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
  • b)
    Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
  • c)
    Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)
  • d)
    Advanced Gas-Cooled Reactor (AGR)
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Suresh Reddy answered
The Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) is a type of reactor that uses ordinary water both as a coolant and a moderator. Water in the reactor core is maintained at high pressure to prevent boiling and to facilitate heat transfer for electricity generation.

What is MOX fuel, as mentioned in the text?
  • a)
    A type of nuclear reactor
  • b)
    A type of nuclear missile
  • c)
    A type of nuclear fuel
  • d)
    A type of nuclear waste
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Vikram Verma answered
MOX fuel stands for "Mixed Oxide" fuel, and it is developed and introduced at Tarapur to conserve fuel and to develop new fuel technology for nuclear reactors.

Which type of reactor is known for its use of graphite moderator and carbon dioxide as a primary coolant?
  • a)
    Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
  • b)
    Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
  • c)
    Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)
  • d)
    Advanced Gas-Cooled Reactor (AGR)
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
The Advanced Gas-Cooled Reactor (AGR) is known for its use of graphite as a moderator and carbon dioxide as a primary coolant. It operates at high temperatures and has a relatively high thermal efficiency of about 41%.

Which country is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons but has not officially confirmed its status and is not a party to the NPT?
  • a)
    India
  • b)
    Pakistan
  • c)
    Israel
  • d)
    North Korea
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanjay Rana answered
Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons but has not officially confirmed its status as a nuclear-armed state. Additionally, Israel is not a party to the NPT.

What percentage of India's electricity supply is contributed by nuclear power as of the information provided?
  • a)
    10%
  • b)
    5%
  • c)
    2%
  • d)
    15%
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

As per the information provided in the text, nuclear power in India delivers a total capacity of 6.7 GWe (Giga Watt Electricity), contributing about 2% of the country’s electricity supply.

What is the primary challenge related to land acquisition and location selection for Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) in India?
  • a)
    Lack of funding for NPPs
  • b)
    Safety concerns of NPPs
  • c)
    Delay in NPP construction
  • d)
    Land acquisition-related challenges
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Kapoor answered
The primary challenge related to land acquisition and location selection for Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) in India, as mentioned in the text, is land acquisition-related challenges. NPPs like Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu and Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh have faced several delays due to such challenges.

What milestone did India achieve on November 5, 2018, in the field of nuclear deterrence?
  • a)
    Successful nuclear disarmament
  • b)
    Completion of six new nuclear reactors
  • c)
    Operationalization of the nuclear triad
  • d)
    Signing of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
On November 5, 2018, India declared that its nuclear triad, as stated in its nuclear doctrine, became operational after the indigenous ballistic missile nuclear submarine INS Arihant achieved a milestone by conducting its first deterrence patrol. This milestone marked the operationalization of India's nuclear triad.

What type of reactor uses fast neutrons and is capable of generating power from plutonium while producing more plutonium from uranium-238?
  • a)
    Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
  • b)
    Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
  • c)
    Fast Neutron Reactor (FNR)
  • d)
    Advanced Gas-Cooled Reactor (AGR)
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Fast Neutron Reactors (FNRs) use fast neutrons and have the capability to generate power from plutonium while also producing more plutonium from uranium-238. They are sometimes referred to as fast breeder reactors (FBRs) when they produce more fissile material than they consume.

What is the primary coolant used in Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs)?
  • a)
    Heavy water
  • b)
    Liquid sodium
  • c)
    Light water
  • d)
    Thorium
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepa Iyer answered
The primary coolant used in Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) is liquid sodium, which serves as a heat transfer medium to carry heat away from the reactor core.

What is the primary purpose of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme?
  • a)
    To achieve nuclear disarmament.
  • b)
    To maximize the energy potential of available uranium resources.
  • c)
    To develop nuclear weapons.
  • d)
    To reduce nuclear testing worldwide.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
The primary purpose of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme is to maximize the energy potential of available uranium resources and utilize the country's thorium reserves for sustainable power generation.

How does food irradiation using gamma rays contribute to food safety and shelf life?
  • a)
    It enhances the taste and flavor of food products.
  • b)
    It kills bacteria that can cause food-borne diseases.
  • c)
    It increases the nutritional value of food.
  • d)
    It reduces the weight of food products.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Khatri answered
Food irradiation using gamma rays contributes to food safety and shelf life by killing bacteria that can cause food-borne diseases. This process helps reduce spoilage and extends the shelf life of food products, particularly in hot and humid regions.

What is the primary purpose of using radioisotopes in industrial processes?
  • a)
    To generate electricity
  • b)
    To create new materials
  • c)
    To monitor fluid flow and equipment integrity
  • d)
    To improve transportation systems
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Arun Khatri answered
The primary purpose of using radioisotopes in industrial processes is to monitor fluid flow, detect leaks, and gauge engine wear and the integrity of process equipment. Radioisotopes are used as tracers to study the mixing and flow rates of various materials in industrial settings.

What is the main reason India was largely excluded from trade in nuclear plant and materials until 2009?
  • a)
    Lack of interest in nuclear energy
  • b)
    Lack of technological expertise
  • c)
    India's weapons program
  • d)
    High costs of nuclear energy
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
India was largely excluded from trade in nuclear plant and materials due to its weapons program. India's status as a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and its weapons program led to trade bans and restrictions in the nuclear industry until 2009.

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