gs1hard
To meet its rapidly growing energy demand, some opine that India should pursue research and development on thorium as the future fuel of nuclear energy. In this context what advantage does thorium hold over uranium?
- 1.Thorium is far more abundant in nature than uranium.
- 2.On the basis per unit mass of mined mineral, thorium can generate more energy compared to natural uranium.
- 3.Thorium produces less harmful waste compared to uranium. Which of the above statements are correct?
- A.Only 1
- B.2 and 3
- C.1 and 3
- D.1, 2 and 3
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Thorium reserves are significantly more abundant globally and especially in India compared to uranium. While natural uranium requires enrichment, thorium can be used in breeder reactors to produce fissile material, potentially leading to higher energy output per unit mass over its lifecycle. Furthermore, thorium fuel cycles are generally considered to produce shorter-lived and less radiotoxic waste compared to traditional uranium-based reactors.
Source: UPSC gs1 2012