Physics · Binding energy per nucleon and its variation with mass number, nuclear fission and fusion

Which of the following reasons make nuclear waste an extremely potent pollutant?

Which of the following reasons make nuclear waste an extremely potent pollutant? This question has multiple correct options

  • A. It causes mutations at a very high rate
  • B. It is responsible for heating of Earths surface and atmosphere
  • C. It is a very challenging task to provide safe disposal of radioactive wastes
  • D. All of the above

Step-by-step solution

1. Nuclear waste contains radioactive isotopes that emit ionizing radiation. 2. Ionizing radiation can damage DNA, leading to mutations at a high rate, which makes it extremely harmful to living organisms. 3. Option B is incorrect because nuclear waste does not significantly contribute to global heating of Earth's surface and atmosphere; that is primarily due to greenhouse gases. 4. Option C describes a challenge of disposal, but it is not a direct reason for nuclear waste's potency as a pollutant; the potency stems from its radioactivity. 5. Since B and C are not direct reasons for potency, option D (All of the above) is false. Therefore, A is the single best correct option.
Practise more in this unitView MCQsSign up for full question bank