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Question:

Some statements about heavy water are given below: (i) Heavy water is used as a moderator in nuclear reactors. (ii) Heavy water is more associated than ordinary water. (iii) Heavy water is a more effective solvent than ordinary water. Which of the above statements are correct?

(i) and (iii)

(i) and (ii)

(i), (ii) and (iii)

(ii) and (iii)

Solution:

Heavy water is used for slowing down the speed of neutrons in nuclear reactors, hence used as moderators. Boiling point of heavy water is greater (374.42 K) than that of ordinary water (373 K), hence heavier water is more associated. Dielectric constant of ordinary water is greater than that of heavy water, hence ordinary water is a better solvent. Thus, the statements (i) and (ii) are correct.