With reference to radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs), consider the following statements:
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.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Answer:
(b)
Non-traditional
B ( 2 and 3 only) RTGs are not fission reactors, nor is plutonium the type that is used for nuclear weapons. (Incorrect) https://science.nasa.gov/mission/cassini/radioisotope-thermoelectric-generator/ Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) are lightweight, compact spacecraft power systems that are extraordinarily reliable.(Correct) https://science.nasa.gov/mission/cassini/radioisotope-thermoelectric-generator/ RTGs provide electrical power using heat from the natural radioactive decay of plutonium-238, in the form of plutonium oxide. The large difference in temperature between this hot fuel and the cold environment of space is applied across special solid-state metallic junctions called thermocouples, which generates an electrical current using no moving parts. (Correct) https://science.nasa.gov/mission/cassini/radioisotope-thermoelectric-generator/