Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution
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Correct Answer: Option (D) — Zirconium
Concept & Option Breakdown
Standard Reference Verified- Zirconium (Zr, atomic number 40) is a stable transition metal widely used in nuclear reactor cladding due to its corrosion resistance and low thermal neutron absorption.
- Astatine (At) is an intensely radioactive halogen with only short-lived isotopes.
- Francium (Fr) is an extremely radioactive alkali metal.
- Tritium (³H) is a radioactive beta-emitting isotope of hydrogen with a half-life of ~12.3 years.
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