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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.

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?

Suresh Reddy answered
Control rods in a nuclear reactor are made of neutron-absorbing materials and are used to absorb excess neutrons, thereby controlling the rate of the nuclear fission reaction. They play a crucial role in regulating and maintaining the reactor's power output.

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 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.

How many countries are members of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)?
  • a)
    7
  • b)
    35
  • c)
    42
  • d)
    48
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)

The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) is an informal and voluntary association of countries that aims to prevent the proliferation of missiles and other unmanned delivery systems capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). It was established in 1987 by the G7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States) to address the growing concern over the proliferation of missile technology.

Countries in the MTCR

As of 2021, a total of 35 countries are members of the Missile Technology Control Regime. These countries include:

1. Argentina
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Belgium
5. Brazil
6. Bulgaria
7. Canada
8. Croatia
9. Cyprus
10. Czech Republic
11. Denmark
12. Estonia
13. Finland
14. France
15. Germany
16. Greece
17. Hungary
18. Iceland
19. Ireland
20. Italy
21. Japan
22. Latvia
23. Lithuania
24. Luxembourg
25. Malta
26. Netherlands
27. New Zealand
28. Norway
29. Poland
30. Portugal
31. Republic of Korea
32. Romania
33. Slovakia
34. Slovenia
35. Spain
36. Sweden
37. Switzerland
38. Turkey
39. Ukraine
40. United Kingdom
41. United States

Criteria for Membership

The MTCR membership is open to all countries that adhere to the guidelines and criteria set by the regime. These criteria include:

1. A commitment to controlling the export, transfer, and production of missile-related technology and equipment.
2. Implementation of export controls to prevent the spread of WMD-related technology.
3. Support for non-proliferation efforts and arms control regimes.
4. Willingness to share information and cooperate with other member countries.

Benefits of Membership

Being a member of the MTCR offers several benefits, including:

1. Access to information and expertise on missile technology and non-proliferation.
2. Enhanced cooperation and coordination with other member countries.
3. Strengthened export control measures to prevent the proliferation of sensitive technologies.
4. Improved credibility and reputation in the international community.
5. Increased opportunities for collaboration on research and development projects.

Conclusion

The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) currently has 35 member countries that are committed to preventing the proliferation of missile technology and maintaining global security. These countries work together to control the export and transfer of sensitive missile-related technology, contributing to efforts to curb the spread of weapons of mass destruction.

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.

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 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.

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 is one of the benefits for India if it were to become a member of the NSG?
  • a)
    Access to foreign military nuclear technology
  • b)
    Facilitation of future nuclear tests
  • c)
    Access to foreign nuclear materials and equipment
  • d)
    Increased restrictions on its thorium-based nuclear program
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Priya Menon answered
One of the benefits for India if it were to become a member of the NSG is access to foreign nuclear materials and equipment, which could facilitate the expansion of its nuclear power generation capabilities and enhance its nuclear energy infrastructure.

Which country has been a vocal opponent of India's bid for membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)?
  • a)
    Australia
  • b)
    China
  • c)
    France
  • d)
    Germany
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aditya Kumar answered
China has been a vocal opponent of India's bid for membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), citing various reasons, including India's non-signatory status to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (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.

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 is the primary reason hindering the deployment of thorium-fueled reactors in India?
  • a)
    Lack of technical expertise
  • b)
    Shortage of thorium reserves
  • c)
    Shortage of fissile material
  • d)
    High construction costs
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Deepa Iyer answered
The correct answer is Option C. The primary reason hindering the deployment of thorium-fueled reactors in India is the shortage of fissile material needed to convert fertile thorium into fissile fuel.

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 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.

How could NSG membership potentially benefit India's thorium-based nuclear program?
  • a)
    By allowing India to initiate talks about plutonium trade for its thorium program
  • b)
    By providing India with access to unlimited uranium supply
  • c)
    By enabling India to conduct nuclear tests without consequences
  • d)
    By facilitating the development of nuclear weapons
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Anita Desai answered
NSG membership could potentially benefit India's thorium-based nuclear program by allowing India to initiate talks about plutonium trade. This could enhance India's thorium program, which relies on advanced nuclear technologies, including the use of plutonium as a fuel source.

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.

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