China opening molten-salt nuclear reactor that uses thorium as fuel

China plans to test a thorium-powered nuclear reactor in the Gobi Desert. Unlike conventional reactors, molten salt reactors dissolve fuel in a liquid core, reducing meltdown risks and increasing efficiency. Thorium is considered greener than uranium as it doesn't produce toxic plutonium and its radioactivity decreases faster. Thorium reactors don't need to be near water bodies, benefiting China geopolitically by reducing reliance on uranium imports. Thorium is more abundant in China, offering strategic advantages.

What is a key difference between conventional nuclear plants and molten salt reactors?

• Conventional plants use thorium as fuel.

• Molten salt reactors dissolve fuel directly into the core.

• Conventional plants operate at higher temperatures.

• Molten salt reactors use water as a coolant.

Why is thorium considered a greener alternative to uranium?

• It requires less cooling.

• It does not create plutonium.

• It produces more energy.

• It is cheaper to mine.

How does the radioactivity of thorium compare to that of uranium?

• Thorium's radioactivity lasts longer.

• Thorium's radioactivity drops off to safe levels faster.

• Both have the same radioactivity duration.

• Uranium's radioactivity is safer.

What is an advantage of thorium reactors in terms of location?

• They need to be near uranium mines.

• They must be near large bodies of water.

• They can be built in remote areas without water access.

• They require more land space.

How does the abundance of thorium in China affect its geopolitical stance?

• It makes China dependent on Canada.

• It reduces dependence on foreign uranium supplies.

• It has no impact on geopolitical relations.

• It increases reliance on uranium imports.