GS PrelimsScience and TechnologyInnovation in Energy Technology2016

India is an important member of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor'. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage for India?

A

It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation

B

It can attain a global role in satellite navigation

C

It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation

D

It can build fusion reactors for power generation

Correct Answer: Option D

Explanation

1. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project is a large-scale scientific partnership aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of fusion as a source of energy. 2. The experiment seeks to produce a significant amount of net energy from a fusion reaction, proving the viability of the technology for future power generation. 3. If ITER succeeds, it will provide critical data and technological know-how for designing and building the first fusion power plants. 4. As an important member, India contributes components and expertise to ITER and gains access to the technology developed. 5. Therefore, the immediate advantage of ITER's success for India (and other partners) would be the capability to move towards building its own fusion reactors for power generation. 6. Option (A) is incorrect; fusion typically uses isotopes of hydrogen (deuterium and tritium), not thorium or uranium (which are used in fission). 7. Option (B) relates to satellite navigation, unrelated to ITER. 8. Option (C) relates to fission reactors; ITER is about fusion, a different nuclear process.

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