A Nuclear power plant generates electricity through nuclear fission, using uranium-235 as fuel. Control rods made of boron or cadmium regulate nuclear reactions and prevent overheating. The heat generated in nuclear power is transferred to a coolant that produces steam that drives turbines and generates electricity. Safety measures, including emergency shutdown systems, backup power supplies, and containment buildings, are in place to prevent accidents and mitigate their potential consequences. The operation’s management and disposal of radioactive waste are also vital aspects. Nuclear power plants provide a reliable source of electricity with low carbon emissions, but concerns about accidents and waste disposal can influence public perception and support. Electrical Engineering Online shares the top 10 Multiple Choice Questions on Nuclear Power plants.
Also see: Complete list of Electrical Engineering Online MCQ Questions
The primary source of energy in a nuclear power plant is
The primary source of energy in a nuclear power plant is
- Fossil fuels
- Solar energy
- Nuclear fission
- Wind power
Correct answer: 3. Nuclear fission
Explanation: In nuclear power plants, heavy elements are subjected to the nuclear fission process, which is the plant’s primary energy source. Nuclear fission refers to breaking nuclei of heavy atoms into two equal parts while releasing vast quantities of energy. A Nuclear power plant produces electric power by harnessing the energy released during nuclear fission.
The material that is commonly used as fuel in nuclear reactors
The material that is commonly used as fuel in nuclear reactors
- Uranium
- Coal
- Natural gas
- Oil
Correct answer: 1. Uranium
Explanation: Uranium-235 is commonly used as fuel in nuclear reactors because of its ability to sustain a chain reaction.
The primary function of a control rod in a nuclear reactor is to
The primary function of a control rod in a nuclear reactor is to
- Generate electricity
- Cool down the reactor
- Absorb neutrons
- Provide structural support
Correct answer: 3. Absorb neutrons
Explanation: The nuclear reactor of a nuclear power plant is a cylindrical vessel that contains Uranium fuel rods and control rods. The purpose of control rods is to regulate the rate of the nuclear reaction by absorbing excess neutrons.
Which of the below-mentioned is a byproduct of nuclear fission in a power plant
Which of the below-mentioned is a byproduct of nuclear fission in a power plant
- Oxygen
- Carbon dioxide
- Radioactive waste
- Water vapor
Correct answer: 3. Radioactive waste
Explanation: As a result of nuclear fission, radioactive waste is produced that needs to be adequately managed and stored.
The function of a coolant in a nuclear reactor is to
The function of a coolant in a nuclear reactor is to
- Absorb neutrons
- Produce electricity
- Control the chain reaction
- Remove heat from the reactor core
Correct answer: 4. Remove heat from the reactor core
Explanation: An enormous amount of heat is produced inside a nuclear reactor. The heat produced is removed using the coolant, usually sodium metal.
The approximate lifespan of a typical nuclear power plant
The approximate lifespan of a typical nuclear power plant
- 10-20 years
- 20-40 years
- 40-80 years
- Over 100 years
Correct answer: 2. 20-40 years
Explanation: Most nuclear power plants have lifetimes of around 20 and 40 years.
The term nuclear meltdown refers to
The term nuclear meltdown refers to
- A controlled reaction in a nuclear reactor
- The release of radiation from a power plant
- The failure of cooling systems leads to overheating of the reactor core
- The shutdown of a nuclear power plant for maintenance
Correct answer: 3. The failure of cooling systems leading to overheating of the reactor core
The significant advantage of nuclear power compared to fossil fuels
The significant advantage of nuclear power compared to fossil fuels
- Lower carbon emissions
- Availability of fuel
- Lower construction costs
- Simplicity of technology
Correct answer: 1. Lower carbon emissions
The primary function of a moderator in a nuclear reactor is to
The primary function of a moderator in a nuclear reactor is to
- Absorb neutrons
- Control the chain reaction
- Generate steam
- Slow down neutrons
Correct answer: 4. Slow down neutrons
Explanation: The primary function of a moderator in a nuclear reactor is to slow down neutrons. The moderator is usually made of graphite rods that enclose fuel rods. The moderator is responsible for slowing down neutrons before they hit the fuel rods.
The significant risk linked with nuclear power plant accidents is
The significant risk linked with nuclear power plant accidents is
- Release of radioactive materials
- Power outages
- Water pollution
- Noise pollution
Correct answer: 1. Release of radioactive materials
Explanation: The primary risk linked with nuclear power plant accidents is the release of radioactive materials. Radioactive materials have severe health and environmental consequences, and that is one of major risks associated with nuclear power plant accidents. Nuclear power plant accidents are very hazardous and can potentially release radioactive materials into the environment.