Q1. With reference to nuclear reactors and lunar exploration, consider the following statements:
- Nuclear power can be advantageous for lunar installations because the lunar night can persist for roughly two Earth weeks, limiting continuous dependence on solar power.
- Permanently shadowed regions near the lunar poles are potential locations for water-ice deposits.
- Since the Moon lacks a substantial atmosphere, a lunar nuclear reactor can primarily dissipate its waste heat through atmospheric convection.
- Lunar water ice, if extracted and electrolysed, can yield hydrogen and oxygen, with oxygen having potential use as a rocket propellant oxidiser.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Long lunar nights make uninterrupted solar generation difficult at most locations, creating a case for nuclear power.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Permanently shadowed polar craters are important targets for lunar water-ice exploration.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The Moon has no substantial atmosphere, so convection is not the principal heat-transfer mechanism. Waste heat must largely be rejected through radiation.
- Statement 4 is Correct: Electrolysis of water produces hydrogen and oxygen; oxygen can potentially serve as a rocket oxidiser.
