Q71. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: India, despite having uranium deposits, depends on coal for most of its electricity production.
Statement-II: Uranium, enriched to the extent of at least 60%, is required for the production of electricity.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
a. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
b. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
c. Statement-I is correct Statement-II is incorrect
d. Statement-I is incorrect Statement-II is correct
Question from UPSC Prelims 2023 GS Paper
Explanation :
c. Statement-I is correct Statement-II is incorrect
Energy Sources and Uranium Enrichment
Statement-I : India does have uranium deposits, but it primarily depends on coal for most of its electricity production. Coal is abundant and relatively cheaper in India, making it the dominant source of energy for electricity generation.
Statement-II : Uranium enriched to the extent of at least 60% is not required for the production of electricity. In fact, commercial nuclear power plants typically use uranium enriched to about 3-5% for fuel. Uranium with a higher enrichment level, such as 60%, is not necessary for electricity production and is generally used for other purposes, such as nuclear weapons or research reactors.
