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Question 11

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?

AOptions

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 but Statement-II is incorrect

D) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

BSolution

Let's examine the statements:

Statement-I: India, despite having uranium deposits, depends on coal for most of its electricity production. This statement is correct. India has significant coal reserves and coal-fired thermal power plants dominate its electricity generation mix, accounting for the largest share. While India does have some uranium deposits (e.g., in Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh), they are not sufficient to meet its full nuclear energy potential, and nuclear power currently contributes a much smaller percentage to the national grid compared to coal.

Statement-II: Uranium, enriched to the extent of at least 60%, is required for the production of electricity. This statement is incorrect. For most commercial nuclear power reactors (specifically Light Water Reactors, which are common globally), uranium is typically enriched to 3-5% U-235 (fissile isotope). Highly enriched uranium (HEU), often above 20% or even much higher (e.g., 90% for weapons-grade), is not required for commercial electricity production. 60% enrichment would be far too high for standard power reactors.

Therefore, Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect.

CStrategy

For statement-based questions, especially those with an 'explanation' component, evaluate each statement independently for correctness first. Then, consider if the second statement logically explains the first. For energy-related questions, understand India's energy mix and the basic principles of nuclear power generation, including enrichment levels.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under 'Indian Economy' (Energy Sector) and 'Science & Technology' (Nuclear Technology) in the UPSC Prelims syllabus.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium. Statement I is generally known, but Statement II requires specific technical knowledge about nuclear fuel enrichment.