QUESTION 6
GS3
10 marks
Distinguish between a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) and a thermal nuclear reactor. In the context of first indigenously developed prototype FBR at Kalpakkam, explain the term ‘criticality’. What are its implications for clean energy future of our country?
WRITE IN
7 min
150 words
What the examiner wants
Compare reactor physics and fuel-cycle logic, define criticality precisely, and connect the PFBR milestone to India’s long-term clean-energy strategy.
Distinguish · ExplainAnswer exactly what the question asks.
Demand-wise check
- 1Compare neutron spectrum, moderator use, breeding/fuel characteristics and reactor purpose≈35 words
- 2Define criticality as a self-sustaining chain-reaction condition≈35 words
- 3Explain implications for fuel utilization, energy security and low-carbon baseload, with safety/cost caveats≈35 words
Open in about 20 words and close in about 20.
Answer plan
Comparison tableCriticality definitionKalpakkam significanceClean-energy implications
Where marks usually go
- Calling criticality a meltdown or uncontrolled reaction
- Explaining FBR merely as a 'faster reactor'
Value addition
- FBR vs thermal table plus chain-reaction sketch
→ Draw it in the body, next to the point it supports.
Official source anchors
These are authoritative sources selected for this exact PYQ. Where a card is an official-domain anchor rather than a fact-level citation, verify the precise provision, definition or data point on the linked source before using it.
Next: plan for one minute, write it in 7 minutes, then get it checked.