Question

The following is not used as a nuclear fuel.

• A. uranium
• B. thorium
• C. plutonium
• D. titanium

Hint:

Remember: Nuclear fuels are materials like uranium, plutonium, and thorium that can undergo or support nuclear fission. Titanium is not a nuclear fuel.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Recall what is meant by nuclear fuel.
A nuclear fuel is a material that can undergo nuclear fission or fusion to release energy, typically used in nuclear reactors or nuclear weapons. The most common nuclear fuels are heavy isotopes that can sustain a chain reaction.
Step 2: Examine each option.
(1) Uranium:
Uranium (especially isotope \(^{235}\)U) is the most widely used nuclear fuel in both nuclear reactors and atomic bombs. It is capable of sustaining a nuclear fission chain reaction. (2) Thorium:
Thorium (\(^{232}\)Th) is not fissile itself but is fertile, meaning it can be converted into fissile \(^{233}\)U in a reactor. Thorium-based reactors are being developed for future use. (3) Plutonium:
Plutonium (mainly \(^{239}\)Pu) is a man-made element used as a nuclear fuel in reactors and nuclear weapons. It is produced from uranium in reactors. (4) Titanium:
Titanium is a strong, lightweight metal known for its corrosion resistance and is used in aerospace, medical implants, and other industries. It does not undergo fission or fusion and is not used as a nuclear fuel.
Step 3: Conclusion Among the given options, uranium, thorium, and plutonium are all used as nuclear fuels, but titanium is not. Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{titanium}} \]