Thorium is found in large quantities in the Monazite sands of an impor...
The largest concentration of monazite sand is on the Kerala coast.
Thorium is found in large quantities in the Monazite sands of an impor...
Thorium in Monazite sands of India
India is known for its vast reserves of thorium, a radioactive element that is widely used in various industries, including energy production. One of the primary sources of thorium in India is the Monazite sands, which are found in significant quantities in a particular state.
Identification of the state
Among the given options, the state that is known for its large reserves of thorium in Monazite sands is Kerala.
Explanation
1. Monazite sands: Monazite is a rare earth phosphate mineral that contains thorium, uranium, and other rare earth elements. It is typically found in beach sands and coastal areas. The Monazite sands in Kerala have been a significant source of thorium for India.
2. Kerala's coastal location: Kerala is a state located on the southwestern coast of India. Its proximity to the Arabian Sea makes it an ideal location for the accumulation of Monazite sands along its shores.
3. Geological factors: The geological composition of Kerala's coastal region is conducive to the formation and deposition of Monazite sands. The presence of heavy minerals, including thorium-bearing minerals like Monazite, in these sands is a result of geological processes over millions of years.
4. Thorium reserves: Kerala is estimated to have one of the largest reserves of thorium in the world. The total amount of thorium in the Monazite sands of Kerala is estimated to be around 30% of the global reserves. This makes Kerala a strategically important state for thorium resources.
5. Importance of thorium: Thorium is a valuable resource due to its potential as an alternative fuel for nuclear energy generation. Unlike uranium, thorium is more abundant and has a higher energy yield. India has been actively exploring the use of thorium-based nuclear reactors to meet its growing energy needs.
In conclusion, the state of Kerala in India is known for its significant reserves of thorium, which is found in the Monazite sands along its coastline. The presence of thorium in Kerala's sands has made it an important state in terms of thorium resources, especially for potential applications in nuclear energy production.