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What is the key difference between nuclear submarines and conventional submarines?
  • a)
    Nuclear submarines have an unlimited range, while conventional submarines have limited range.
  • b)
    Nuclear submarines use diesel generators for propulsion, while conventional submarines use nuclear reactors.
  • c)
    Nuclear submarines are larger in size than conventional submarines.
  • d)
    Conventional submarines can stay underwater for months without surfacing.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
Most Upvoted Answer
What is the key difference between nuclear submarines and conventional...
The key difference between nuclear submarines and conventional submarines is that nuclear submarines have an unlimited range, while conventional submarines have a limited range.

Unlimited Range of Nuclear Submarines
Nuclear submarines are powered by nuclear reactors, which generate heat through a process called nuclear fission. This heat is then used to produce steam, which drives turbines that propel the submarine. Unlike conventional submarines that rely on diesel engines for propulsion, nuclear submarines do not require refueling as long as the reactor remains operational. This allows them to operate for extended periods of time without needing to surface or be refueled, giving them an unlimited range. The nuclear reactors can provide power for the submarine's propulsion and other systems for several years, allowing the submarine to stay submerged for months or even years at a time.

Limited Range of Conventional Submarines
On the other hand, conventional submarines are powered by diesel engines that require regular refueling. Diesel engines are not as efficient as nuclear reactors and require a constant supply of fuel, typically diesel or marine diesel oil. This limits the range of conventional submarines as they can only carry a limited amount of fuel, which needs to be replenished periodically. Additionally, conventional submarines need to surface frequently to recharge their batteries, replenish their air supply, and refuel. These limitations make conventional submarines more dependent on logistics and restrict their operational range compared to nuclear submarines.

Significance of Unlimited Range
The unlimited range of nuclear submarines offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows nuclear submarines to operate far from their homeports, increasing their strategic reach and enabling them to carry out long-duration missions. Secondly, the ability to remain submerged for extended periods of time enhances their stealth capabilities, making them harder to detect by enemy forces. Furthermore, the unlimited range of nuclear submarines reduces their vulnerability to attacks, as they do not need to surface as frequently and can avoid potential threats on the surface.

In conclusion, the key difference between nuclear submarines and conventional submarines lies in their propulsion systems and the resulting range. While nuclear submarines have an unlimited range due to their use of nuclear reactors, conventional submarines have a limited range as they rely on diesel engines. The unlimited range of nuclear submarines grants them greater operational flexibility, endurance, and stealth capabilities compared to their conventional counterparts.
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What is the key difference between nuclear submarines and conventional...
Nuclear submarines have an unlimited range due to their nuclear reactors, while conventional submarines have a limited range and need to surface or snorkel to recharge their batteries.
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What is the key difference between nuclear submarines and conventional submarines?a)Nuclear submarines have an unlimited range, while conventional submarines have limited range.b)Nuclear submarines use diesel generators for propulsion, while conventional submarines use nuclear reactors.c)Nuclear submarines are larger in size than conventional submarines.d)Conventional submarines can stay underwater for months without surfacing.Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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