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Q7 (CDS-I/2010) Science & Technology › New Materials, Energy & Environment-linked Tech › Nuclear energy technologies Answer Verified

Which among the following elements is abundant on the lunar surface and holds the potential to put an end to the energy crisis of the earth ?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: C
Explanation

Helium-3 (3He) is a light, stable isotope of helium that is extremely rare on Earth but abundant on the lunar surface [t3][t6]. It is deposited in the lunar regolith by solar winds over billions of years [t4]. Helium-3 is considered a revolutionary fuel for nuclear fusion because it enables aneutronic fusion reactions, such as the deuterium–helium-3 (D-3He) reaction, which produces minimal to no radioactive waste and allows for the direct conversion of energy into electricity [t5][t7]. While terrestrial reserves are insufficient for large-scale power, the Moon's supply could potentially meet global energy demands for centuries, offering a solution to the Earth's energy crisis [t1][t5]. The nomenclature 'Helium-III' in the options refers to this specific isotope (3He), distinguishing it from the common Helium-4 (4He) [t6].

Sources

  1. [1] https://ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/20210022801/downloads/AIAA%20ASCEND%202021%20Paper_211018.pdf?utm_source=syndication
  2. [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helium-3
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