1998 General Studies, all questions

UPSC Prelims 1998 · General Studies

Question 104: Science and Technology

Which one of the following elements is essential for the construction of nuclear reactors?

aCobalt
bNickel
cZirconium
dTungsten

AnswerThe answer is (c).

Zirconium absorbs very few neutrons and resists corrosion at high temperature, so zirconium alloys (zircaloy) are used to make the fuel cladding and structural parts of reactors. Cobalt, nickel and tungsten absorb neutrons more strongly or are not essential; cobalt, for example, becomes strongly radioactive.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Cobalt absorbs neutrons and becomes radioactive.
  • (b) Nickel absorbs more neutrons than zirconium.
  • (c) Right: zirconium has a low neutron absorption and resists corrosion.
  • (d) Tungsten is not the essential material for reactor construction.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1998, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.