With reference to radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), consider the following statements:
- RTGs are miniature fission reactors.
- RTGs are used for powering the onboard systems of spacecraft.
- RTGs can use Plutonium-238, which is a by-product of weapons
development.
Which
of the statements given above are correct?
(a). 1 and 2 only
(b). 2 and 3 only
(c). 1 and 3 only
(d). 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
The following statements about
radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) are correct:
Statement 2: RTGs are often used to power
spacecraft systems, especially those that travel to deep space where solar
power is not practical.
Statement 3: RTGs can use plutonium-238,
which can be a byproduct of nuclear reactors and weapons development. However,
NASA and other sources note that plutonium-238 used in RTGs is not weapon
grade.
RTGs are a type of nuclear battery that
use the decay of radioactive isotopes to generate electricity. They are also
known as radioisotope power systems. RTGs are ideal for remote and harsh
environments because they have no moving parts and are less likely to
malfunction or wear out over time. They are often used in situations where
other power sources, like batteries, fuel cells, or generators, are not
economical or practical. For example, RTGs have been used to power satellites,
space probes, and lighthouses in the Arctic Circle.
Therefore, the correct option is (b) only
2 and 3