Element essential for nuclear reactor construction — UPSC Prelims PYQ 1998
Which one of the following elements is essential for the construction of nuclear reactors?
- Cobalt
- Nickel
- Zirconium
- Tungsten
Explanation
Option (c) is correct
- Zirconium is widely used in the construction of nuclear reactors because it has high resistance to corrosion and a very low absorption cross-section for neutrons, making it suitable for cladding fuel rods in nuclear reactors. Cobalt, nickel, and tungsten are used in various industrial applications but are not the primary material used for this purpose in reactors.
Answer: (c) Zirconium
