Air & Water Pollution — Set 4
Environment · वायु और जल प्रदूषण · Questions 31–40 of 70
Which air pollutant causes the formation of carboxyhemoglobin in human blood?
Correct Answer: A. Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide has a much higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen does. When inhaled, it blocks the blood's ability to carry oxygen to organs like the heart and brain. High concentrations can lead to unconsciousness and death in a short time.
What is the 'Albedo' effect in the context of global environmental change?
Correct Answer: C. The reflectivity of a surface
Albedo measures how much solar energy is reflected back into space by surfaces like ice or clouds. Melting ice caps reduce the Earth's albedo, causing more heat to be absorbed by the dark oceans. This creates a positive feedback loop that accelerates global warming.
Which pollutant is primarily responsible for the yellowing of the Taj Mahal?
Correct Answer: D. Sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide from nearby industries reacts with moisture to form acid rain that corrodes the marble. It produces a chemical called calcium sulfate, which gives the white stone a yellow tint. The Taj Trapezium Zone was established to regulate pollution near the monument.
Which of these gases has the highest 'Global Warming Potential' (GWP)?
Correct Answer: A. Sulfur hexafluoride
While CO2 is the most abundant, sulfur hexafluoride is thousands of times more efficient at trapping heat. It is used in electrical power systems and remains in the atmosphere for thousands of years. GWP is a relative measure used to compare different greenhouse gases.
What is 'Greywater' in terms of water pollution and conservation?
Correct Answer: C. Wastewater from baths and laundry
Greywater contains low levels of organic matter and can often be recycled for irrigation or flushing toilets. It is distinct from 'blackwater,' which is contaminated with human waste and requires intensive treatment. Reusing greywater is a significant strategy for reducing freshwater demand.
Which device is used to remove particulate matter from industrial chimney gases using electricity?
Correct Answer: D. Electrostatic Precipitator
An electrostatic precipitator applies an electric charge to particles, making them stick to collection plates. This technology can remove over 99% of dust and smoke from industrial emissions. It is a critical tool for air pollution control in power plants.
Which element's presence in groundwater is a major cause of skin lesions and cancer in parts of West Bengal and Bangladesh?
Correct Answer: A. Arsenic
Arsenic contamination in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta is a natural occurrence caused by local geology. Long-term consumption of this contaminated water leads to severe chronic health problems. Providing arsenic-free drinking water remains a major public health challenge in this region.
What is the primary cause of 'Oil Spills' in the oceans?
Correct Answer: C. Accidents involving tankers and oil rigs
The correct answer is 'Accidents involving tankers and oil rigs'. Oil spills occur when large quantities of liquid petroleum are released during transport or extraction. These events coat the feathers of birds and the fur of marine mammals, causing them to freeze or drown. Cleanup operations are often difficult, expensive, and time-consuming.
Which term refers to the smoke and pollutants trapped inside buildings, often due to poor ventilation?
Correct Answer: D. Indoor air pollution
Indoor air pollution can be caused by burning biomass fuels, tobacco smoke, and volatile chemicals from furniture. It is a leading cause of respiratory illness in developing countries where people cook with wood or coal indoors. Improving house design and using clean cookstoves can reduce this risk.
Which chemical used in agriculture is the primary cause of 'Groundwater' pollution?
Correct Answer: A. Nitrates and Pesticides
Excessive fertilizers leach through the soil and enter the underground aquifers over time. Pesticides can also persist in the groundwater, posing health risks to those using wells for drinking. This type of pollution is particularly dangerous as groundwater is hard to clean once contaminated.