Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators
Question
With reference to radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1.
RTGs are miniature fission reactors.
- 2.
RTGs are used for powering the onboard systems of spacecrafts.
- 3.
RTGs can use Plutonium-238, which is a by-product of weapons development.
Options
1 and 2 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect; RTGs are not fission reactors. They do not sustain a nuclear chain reaction. Instead, they generate electricity passively by converting the heat released from the natural radioactive decay of an isotope into electricity using thermocouples. Statements 2 and 3 are correct; RTGs use isotopes like Plutonium-238 to reliably power deep-space missions where solar panels are ineffective.
Answer: (b).
Question details
Year
2024
Paper
GS Paper 1
Question
Q31
Subject
Science & Technology
Sub-topic
Space Technology & Astronomy
Type
Statement-based
Difficulty
Hard
Nature
Static
Source hint
ISRO Deep Space Missions / Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators 2023
Same sub-topic — other years
Space Technology & Astronomy has appeared in multiple papers:
See all questions on Space Technology & Astronomy
Browse every tagged question across all years