All questions of Human & Environment Interaction for UGC NET Exam

Health issues caused by inhalation of asbestos:
Asbestos exposure can lead to various health issues, with the most common being fibrotic lung disease.
- Fibrotic lung disease: Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause scarring of the lung tissue, leading to conditions such as asbestosis and pulmonary fibrosis. These conditions can result in difficulty breathing, coughing, and decreased lung function over time.
Other potential health issues related to asbestos exposure include:
- Skin rashes: Direct contact with asbestos fibers can cause skin irritation and rashes, although this is less common than respiratory issues.
- Cardiovascular diseases: Some studies have suggested a possible link between asbestos exposure and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, although more research is needed to confirm this association.
- Osteoporosis: Prolonged exposure to asbestos has been associated with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones and increased risk of fractures.
It is crucial to take precautions to avoid exposure to asbestos, especially in occupational settings where the risk may be higher. Proper protective equipment and following safety guidelines can help prevent the development of these health issues associated with asbestos inhalation.

Occupational Health Hazard Faced by Miners: Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a common occupational health hazard faced by miners. Here are some key points to explain why this is a significant concern for miners:

What is Asbestosis?
Asbestosis is a chronic inflammatory and fibrotic condition of the lungs caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. Miners who work in mines where asbestos is present are at a high risk of developing this disease.

Exposure in Mining Industry
Miners may be exposed to asbestos fibers during the mining process, particularly in underground mining where asbestos-containing rock is disturbed. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to the development of asbestosis over time.

Symptoms and Health Effects
Asbestosis can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. Over time, the condition can progress to more severe respiratory issues and even respiratory failure. Miners with asbestosis are also at a higher risk of developing lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Prevention and Control Measures
To prevent asbestosis and other asbestos-related diseases, it is essential for miners to use proper personal protective equipment, such as respirators, and follow safety protocols to minimize exposure to asbestos fibers. Regular monitoring of air quality in mines and medical surveillance of miners can also help in early detection of potential health issues.
In conclusion, asbestosis is a significant occupational health hazard faced by miners due to exposure to asbestos fibers in mining environments. It is crucial for mining companies to implement strict safety measures to protect the health and well-being of their workers.

Transportation activities significantly impact the environment by releasing several million tons of gases into the atmosphere each year. These gases include lead (Pb), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrogen oxides (NOx), nitrous oxide (N2O), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), heavy metals (zinc, chrome, copper, and cadmium), and particulate matters (ash, dust). This pollution contributes to various environmental and health issues, making it crucial to address and regulate transportation emissions.

Impact of Nitrous Oxide on the Atmosphere
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas with several environmental implications. Among the provided options, the correct answer is that it depletes the stratospheric ozone layer.
How Nitrous Oxide Affects the Ozone Layer:
- Stratospheric Reactions: When nitrous oxide reaches the stratosphere, it can be broken down by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This breakdown results in the release of nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are known to participate in ozone depletion.
- Ozone Depletion Mechanism: The nitrogen oxides produced from nitrous oxide can catalyze reactions that destroy ozone molecules. Ozone (O3) in the stratosphere plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing harmful UV radiation.
- Cumulative Impact: The depletion of the ozone layer allows more UV radiation to reach the Earth's surface, which can lead to increased skin cancer rates, cataracts, and negative impacts on ecosystems.
Other Options Explained:
- a) Greenhouse Effect: While nitrous oxide is indeed a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, this option does not pertain to ozone depletion.
- c) Acid Rain: Nitrous oxide is not a direct precursor to acid rain; instead, sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from other sources are the primary contributors.
- d) Agricultural Crop Yields: While nitrous oxide can enhance crop yields as a fertilizer, this does not relate to its atmospheric impact.
In summary, nitrous oxide's primary environmental concern is its role in depleting the stratospheric ozone layer, which is critical for life on Earth.

The Sustainable Development Goal concerning the reduction of child mortality primarily aims to combat diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and others that significantly contribute to child mortality rates worldwide. This goal emphasizes the importance of improving healthcare systems, access to essential medicines, and disease prevention strategies to ensure the well-being and survival of children globally.

High tech buildings have the potential to reduce overall costs by improving energy efficiency and decreasing maintenance costs. This not only benefits the building owners financially but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing energy consumption and associated pollution.