Question 73 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Science and
Technology

Question

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

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. It can build fusion reactors for power generation

Strategy: The question hinges on understanding the core purpose of the 'International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor' (ITER). The term 'Thermonuclear' is the key indicator, directly pointing to nuclear fusion. If an experimental reactor for thermonuclear (fusion) energy succeeds, the most direct and immediate advantage for participating nations like India would be the ability to translate that success into building practical fusion reactors for power generation. Other options mentioning thorium, satellite navigation, or improving fission reactors are either unrelated to fusion or represent indirect or future possibilities, not the immediate advantage of ITER's success.

Key Info: The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is an international nuclear fusion research and engineering megaproject, currently under construction in Cadarache, France.

*   **ITER's Objective:** Its primary goal is to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion power for peaceful purposes, paving the way for the first commercial fusion power plants. It aims to produce 500 MW of fusion power from 50 MW of input heating power, showcasing a net energy gain.
*   **Nuclear Fusion:** This process involves combining light atomic nuclei (like isotopes of hydrogen – deuterium and tritium) at extremely high temperatures and pressures to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a massive amount of energy. This is the same reaction that powers the Sun and stars. Fusion is distinct from nuclear fission, which involves splitting heavy atomic nuclei.
*   **Advantages of Fusion Power:** It offers potential benefits such as abundant fuel resources (deuterium from seawater, tritium bred from lithium), minimal long-lived radioactive waste, inherent safety (no risk of runaway reactions), and no greenhouse gas emissions.
*   **India's Role:** India is one of the seven members (along with the European Union, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States) collaborating on the ITER project. India contributes components, expertise, and benefits from the shared knowledge and technological advancements.
*   **Immediate Advantage for India:** If ITER successfully demonstrates sustained fusion reactions, the immediate advantage for India, as a participating member, would be the acquisition of critical knowledge, technology, and operational experience necessary to design and build its own commercial fusion reactors for power generation. This would significantly contribute to India's long-term energy security and a cleaner energy future.

Answer

Option A: It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation

Answer

Option B: It can attain a global role in satellite-navigation

Answer

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