All Exams  >   BPSC (Bihar)  >   Science & Technology for State PSC Exams  >   All Questions

All questions of Nuclear Energy and Renewable Energy for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

What is the primary purpose of the Thorium Cycle in India's nuclear energy strategy?
  • a)
    To produce plutonium-239 for nuclear weapons.
  • b)
    To generate electricity using natural uranium.
  • c)
    To achieve a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle.
  • d)
    To exploit India's vast thorium reserves.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Yash Sen answered
Primary Purpose of the Thorium Cycle in India's Nuclear Energy Strategy

India's nuclear energy strategy places great emphasis on the Thorium Cycle due to several key reasons. The primary purpose of the Thorium Cycle in India's nuclear energy strategy is to exploit the country's vast thorium reserves. This choice is driven by the fact that India possesses the world's largest reserves of thorium, estimated to be around 25-30% of global reserves.

1. Energy Security and Independence:
- India's dependence on fossil fuels for energy generation is a major concern due to the limited availability and environmental impact of these resources.
- Utilizing the Thorium Cycle allows India to tap into its own domestic resources, reducing its reliance on imported uranium.

2. Abundance of Thorium:
- Thorium is more abundant in nature compared to uranium, making it a promising alternative for long-term sustainable energy supply.
- India's vast thorium reserves provide a significant advantage in terms of fuel availability for nuclear reactors.

3. Safety and Waste Reduction:
- The Thorium Cycle offers inherent safety features, such as a higher melting point, which reduces the risk of accidents or meltdowns.
- In addition, thorium-based reactors produce less long-lived radioactive waste compared to traditional uranium-based reactors, making them more environmentally friendly.

4. Breeder Reactors:
- The Thorium Cycle utilizes breeder reactors, which can produce more fuel than they consume.
- By using thorium as a fertile material, it can be converted into fissile uranium-233 through a series of nuclear reactions.
- This allows for self-sufficiency in fuel production and reduces the need for additional uranium imports.

5. Technology Development:
- Embracing the Thorium Cycle provides India with an opportunity to develop and showcase its technological prowess in the nuclear energy sector.
- Developing advanced thorium-based reactor designs and fuel cycle technologies can position India as a global leader in this field.

In conclusion, the primary purpose of the Thorium Cycle in India's nuclear energy strategy is to exploit the country's vast thorium reserves. This strategic choice offers numerous advantages, including energy security, resource abundance, safety, waste reduction, breeder reactor capabilities, and technological development. By leveraging thorium, India aims to achieve a sustainable and self-sufficient nuclear fuel cycle, reducing its dependence on imported uranium and fossil fuels.

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.

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?

Ashutosh Gupta answered
The primary function of plant mutation breeding using radiation in the context of agriculture is to induce desirable traits in plants. This process involves exposing plants to radiation, such as gamma rays or X-rays, in order to induce genetic mutations. These mutations can lead to the development of new characteristics in the plants, such as increased yield, improved resistance to diseases or pests, enhanced nutritional content, or better adaptability to different environmental conditions.

Advantages of Plant Mutation Breeding using Radiation:
1. Increased Genetic Variation: Plant mutation breeding helps to increase the genetic variation within a crop species. This is important because genetic variation is the basis for plant breeding and the development of new crop varieties with improved traits.

2. Accelerated Breeding Process: Traditional plant breeding methods rely on the natural occurrence of genetic mutations, which can be a slow and unpredictable process. Radiation-induced mutation breeding allows for the accelerated development of new plant varieties with desirable traits.

3. Targeted Trait Improvement: By exposing plants to radiation, specific traits can be targeted for improvement. This allows breeders to focus on traits that are important for crop productivity, quality, or resilience.

4. Compatibility with Conventional Breeding Techniques: Plant mutation breeding can be easily integrated with conventional breeding techniques. Mutated plants can be crossed with other plants to combine desirable traits and create new varieties with an improved genetic makeup.

5. Reduced Reliance on Chemical Inputs: Through plant mutation breeding, it is possible to develop crop varieties that are naturally resistant to pests, diseases, or environmental stressors. This can reduce the need for chemical inputs, such as pesticides or fertilizers, leading to more sustainable agricultural practices.

Overall, plant mutation breeding using radiation plays a crucial role in agricultural research and development. It offers a powerful tool for breeders to create new plant varieties with improved traits, ultimately contributing to increased crop productivity, sustainability, and food security.

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 purpose of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards mentioned in the NPT?
  • a)
    To promote nuclear weapons development in non-nuclear-armed states.
  • b)
    To verify that nuclear materials and facilities in non-nuclear-armed states are used exclusively for peaceful purposes.
  • c)
    To monitor disarmament efforts of nuclear-armed states.
  • d)
    To regulate the use of nuclear energy for military purposes.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Anuj Kumar answered

Purpose of IAEA Safeguards in the NPT:

Verification of Peaceful Purposes:
IAEA safeguards mentioned in the NPT are primarily aimed at verifying that nuclear materials and facilities in non-nuclear-armed states are used exclusively for peaceful purposes. This is crucial in preventing the diversion of nuclear technology for military purposes.

Prevention of Nuclear Weapons Development:
By ensuring that countries adhere to safeguards, the IAEA helps prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. It promotes transparency and accountability in the use of nuclear energy, thereby reducing the risk of nuclear weapons development.

Building Trust and Confidence:
The implementation of safeguards by the IAEA promotes trust and confidence among countries regarding their nuclear activities. This helps in fostering international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy while reducing the likelihood of conflicts arising from suspicions of nuclear weapons programs.

Enhancing Nuclear Security:
Safeguards play a crucial role in enhancing nuclear security globally. By monitoring and verifying compliance with non-proliferation commitments, the IAEA safeguards contribute to the overall goal of strengthening nuclear security and stability.

Promoting Non-Proliferation:
Through the verification of peaceful nuclear activities, IAEA safeguards serve to promote non-proliferation efforts and contribute to the overall goal of preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. This is essential for maintaining global peace and security.

In conclusion, the purpose of IAEA safeguards mentioned in the NPT is to verify that nuclear materials and facilities in non-nuclear-armed states are used exclusively for peaceful purposes, thereby preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons and promoting international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

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?

Overview of India's Three-Stage Nuclear Power Program
India's three-stage nuclear power program is primarily designed to achieve complete energy independence. This ambitious initiative seeks to utilize the country's vast thorium reserves, aiming for a sustainable and self-reliant energy future.
Key Objectives
- Energy Security
- The program aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and foreign energy sources.
- By harnessing nuclear energy, India seeks to ensure a stable and continuous power supply.
- Utilization of Domestic Resources
- India has substantial reserves of thorium, which is a key component in the program.
- The focus on thorium allows for a long-term energy solution using indigenous materials.
- Technological Advancement
- Development of advanced reactors and fuel cycles is a significant goal.
- The program encourages innovation in nuclear technology, enhancing overall energy efficiency.
Stages of the Program
- First Stage: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR)
- Utilizes natural uranium to generate electricity.
- Second Stage: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBR)
- Converts fertile uranium into fissile material, increasing fuel availability.
- Third Stage: Thorium-Based Reactors
- Aims to use thorium fuel, making the energy generation process sustainable.
Conclusion
The primary purpose of India's three-stage nuclear power program is to achieve complete energy independence, ensuring energy security for future generations while utilizing domestic resources effectively. This strategic approach not only focuses on energy needs but also promotes technological advancements in the nuclear sector, thereby enhancing India's energy landscape.

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?

Divyansh Ghosh answered
Primary Purpose of Burnable Poisons in a Nuclear Reactor:
Burnable poisons in a nuclear reactor serve a crucial purpose in the operation and control of the reactor.

Neutron Absorption and Reaction Control:
- The primary purpose of burnable poisons is to absorb excess neutrons within the reactor core.
- By slowing down the reaction through neutron absorption, burnable poisons help in controlling the rate of fission and maintaining the reactor at a stable power level.

Enhancing Reactor Safety:
- Burnable poisons play a key role in enhancing the safety of the reactor by preventing the possibility of a rapid and uncontrollable chain reaction.
- They provide an additional layer of control and moderation to ensure the reactor operates within safe limits.

Longevity and Efficiency:
- Another important function of burnable poisons is to increase the longevity and efficiency of the fuel in the reactor.
- By absorbing excess neutrons, burnable poisons help in extending the lifespan of the fuel and optimizing its energy output.
In conclusion, the primary purpose of burnable poisons in a nuclear reactor is to absorb excess neutrons, control the reaction rate, enhance safety, and improve the efficiency and longevity of the reactor's fuel.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Chapter doubts & questions for Nuclear Energy and Renewable Energy - Science & Technology for State PSC Exams 2025 is part of BPSC (Bihar) exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the BPSC (Bihar) exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for BPSC (Bihar) 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

Chapter doubts & questions of Nuclear Energy and Renewable Energy - Science & Technology for State PSC Exams in English & Hindi are available as part of BPSC (Bihar) exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for BPSC (Bihar) Exam by signing up for free.

Top Courses BPSC (Bihar)