Which one of the following is a nuclear fuel mineral?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Pitchblende. Pitchblende is a primary uranium ore and is a significant mineral for nuclear fuel production. It contains uranium oxide (U₃O₈) and is the primary source of uranium used in nuclear reactors and weapons.
Explanation:
· Pitchblende (Uraninite):
· Contains a high percentage of uranium oxide.
· The primary source for extracting uranium, which is used as nuclear fuel.
· It typically appears black or brown and has a pitch-like luster.
The other options are not nuclear fuel minerals:
· Rutile: A mineral composed of titanium dioxide (TiO₂), used in the production of titanium metal and pigments.
· Energite: This is not a recognized mineral.
· Augite: A common pyroxene mineral found in igneous rocks, composed of calcium, magnesium, and iron silicates.
Information Booster:
1. Pitchblende is a primary uranium ore and was historically significant in the discovery of radioactivity.
2. Uranium is used as fuel in nuclear power plants and for producing nuclear weapons.
3. Nuclear fuel minerals are critical for generating nuclear energy.
4. Rutile is primarily a source of titanium, not uranium.
5. Uraninite is the scientific name for pitchblende, containing up to 80% uranium oxide.
Additional Knowledge:
· (a) Rutile:
· Titanium dioxide mineral.
· Used for titanium production and as a pigment in paints and plastics.
· (b) Pitchblende:
· A naturally occurring uranium oxide mineral.
· Discovered by Marie and Pierre Curie, leading to the discovery of radium and polonium.
· (c) Energite:
· This is not a valid mineral. Likely a misspelling or fictional term.
· (d) Augite:
· A dark-colored pyroxene found in basalt and gabbro.
· Composed of calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminum silicates.
Key Points:
1. Pitchblende is a key mineral for nuclear fuel production.
2. Uranium is essential for generating nuclear power.
3. Rutile and Augite are unrelated to nuclear fuel.
4. Pitchblende played a critical role in the development of radioactivity research.
5. Proper handling of uranium ores is essential for safety due to their radioactivity.