Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor

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Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor

Science & Technology
Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor

India achieves criticality in its Fast Breeder Reactor, marking progress in the second stage of the nuclear programme. The development highlights advancement in self-sustaining nuclear energy systems.

Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR):

Dimension Key Details
Criticality Is the stage where a nuclear reactor achieves a self-sustaining chain reaction with sufficient neutrons released in each fission event.
Definition Is a nuclear reactor that uses fast neutrons to generate more nuclear fuel than it consumes while producing power.
Location Is located at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu.
Operator Is operated by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited.
Capacity Provides for power capacity of 500 megawatt.
Fuel and Coolant Provides for use of uranium-plutonium mixed oxide fuel and liquid sodium as coolant.
Breeder Mechanism Provides for uranium-238 blanket undergoing transmutation to produce additional nuclear fuel.
Programme Context Applies to second stage of India’s three-stage nuclear programme.
Significance Comprises pathway for utilisation of thorium reserves, passive safety features, and reduction of nuclear waste through use of spent fuel.
Nuclear Programme Genesis Provides for presentation in 1954 by Dr. Homi J. Bhabha.
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Attempt Possible Qs

Q 1 / 3
With reference to the Fast Breeder Reactor mentioned, consider the following statements:
1. It uses uranium-plutonium mixed oxide fuel.
2. It uses liquid sodium as coolant.
Which of the statements given above are correct?