To meet its rapidly growing energy demand some opine that India should pursue research and development on thorium as the future fuel of nuclear energy. In this context, what advantage does thorium hold over uranium?
1. Thorium is far more abundant in nature than uranium.
2. On the basis of per unit mass of mined mineral, thorium can generate more energy compared to natural uranium.
3. Thorium produces less harmful waste compared to uranium.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

A. Only 1

B. Only 2 and 3

C. Only 1 and 3

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: Option D