All questions of Environmental Pollution for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

Which of these are correctly matched?
1. Arresters - These are used to separate particulate matters from contaminated air
2. Scrubbers - These are used to clean air for both dusts and gases by passing it through a dry or wet packing material
Which of these statements is/are correct:
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Chirag Chawla answered
Correctly Matched Terms and their Descriptions:

1. Arresters - These are used to separate particulate matters from contaminated air
2. Scrubbers - These are used to clean air for both dusts and gases by passing it through a dry or wet packing material

Explanation:

The given statements are related to air pollution control devices. The first statement is about Arresters and describes their function, which is to remove particulate matter from contaminated air. The second statement is about Scrubbers, which clean air by passing it through dry or wet packing material. Both of these statements are correctly matched with their respective devices.

Hence, option 'C' is the correct answer.

Q. Which of the following is/are advantages of fly ash?
1.Fly ash bricks are light in weight and offer high strength and durability.
2.Fly ash is a better fill material for road embankments and in concrete roads.
3.Fly ash can be used in reclamation of wastelands.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
  • a)
    All of these
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
    3 only
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Eesha Bhat answered
Advantages:
  • Fly ash in the air slowly settles on leaves and crops in fields in areas near to thermal power plants and lowers the plant yield. 
  • Cement can be replaced by fly ash up to 35%, thus reducing the cost of construction, making roads, etc.
  • Fly ash bricks are light in weight and offer high strength and durability.
  • Fly ash is a better fill material for road embankments and in concrete roads.
  • Fly ash can be used in the reclamation of wastelands.
  • Abandoned mines can be filled up with fly ash.
  • Fly ash can increase the crop yield and it also enhances the water holding capacity of the land.
Hence, the correct option is 'A'.

Which of the following is not a consequence of plastic pollution in marine environments?
  • a)
    Ingestion by Antarctic krill and zooplankton.
  • b)
    Increased primary production in seawater.
  • c)
    Concentration of toxic compounds from seawater.
  • d)
    Distress in over 250 species worldwide.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Garima Das answered

Increased primary production in seawater:

Increased primary production in seawater is not a consequence of plastic pollution in marine environments. Plastic pollution, on the contrary, has detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Some of the consequences of plastic pollution in marine environments include:

Ingestion by Antarctic krill and zooplankton:
Plastic pollution can be mistaken for food by marine organisms such as Antarctic krill and zooplankton, leading to ingestion. This can have negative impacts on their health and survival.

Concentration of toxic compounds from seawater:
Plastic pollution can act as a magnet for toxic compounds such as pesticides and heavy metals present in seawater. These toxic compounds can then accumulate in the tissues of marine organisms, posing a threat to their health and potentially entering the food chain.

Distress in over 250 species worldwide:
Plastic pollution can cause distress in over 250 species worldwide, including seabirds, turtles, marine mammals, and fish. Animals can become entangled in plastic debris, suffer from internal injuries due to ingestion, or experience habitat destruction.

In conclusion, while plastic pollution has numerous negative consequences for marine environments, increased primary production in seawater is not one of them. It is essential to address plastic pollution through proper waste management, recycling initiatives, and awareness campaigns to protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Which category under MoEFCC's industrial sector categorization indicates the highest level of pollution?
  • a)
    Green
  • b)
    White
  • c)
    Orange
  • d)
    Red
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Siddharth Nair answered
Understanding MoEFCC's Industrial Sector Categorization
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) categorizes industries based on their potential environmental impact. This classification helps in regulating pollution and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
Categories Explained
- Green Category:
- Industries with minimal pollution potential.
- These industries typically have less environmental impact and are subject to fewer regulatory requirements.
- White Category:
- Non-polluting industries or those that require very minimal environmental monitoring.
- They contribute little to no pollution and are generally exempt from environmental clearance.
- Orange Category:
- Industries that have a moderate level of pollution potential.
- These industries need to comply with certain environmental regulations but are not as strictly monitored as the Red category.
- Red Category:
- This category includes industries with the highest level of pollution potential.
- Industries classified as Red are significant polluters and are subject to stringent regulatory oversight, including obtaining environmental clearances and adhering to strict emission standards.
Why 'Red' Indicates Highest Pollution
- Severe Environmental Impact:
- Red category industries often involve processes that can lead to substantial air, water, and soil pollution.
- Regulatory Scrutiny:
- They are required to implement advanced pollution control measures and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental norms.
- Public Health Concerns:
- The activities of Red category industries can pose serious risks to public health and the environment, necessitating rigorous monitoring.
In summary, the Red category signifies industries that have the highest pollution potential and therefore, demand the most stringent regulatory measures to mitigate their environmental impact.

Consider the following statements:
1. Water pollution by organic wastes is measured in terms of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).
2. BOD is the amount of dissolved oxygen needed by bacteria in decomposing the organic wastes present in water.
3. It is expressed in milligrams of oxygen per litre of water.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Rohit Datta answered
Water Pollution and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)

Introduction:
Water pollution is a significant environmental issue that poses a threat to the health and well-being of humans and ecosystems. Organic wastes, such as sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial effluents, can contribute to water pollution. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a crucial parameter used to measure the extent of water pollution caused by organic wastes.

Statement 1: Water pollution by organic wastes is measured in terms of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).
This statement is correct. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a widely used parameter for measuring the level of organic pollution in water bodies. BOD helps to determine the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to break down the organic matter present in the water.

Statement 2: BOD is the amount of dissolved oxygen needed by bacteria in decomposing the organic wastes present in water.
This statement is correct. BOD quantifies the amount of oxygen consumed by bacteria and other microorganisms as they decompose the organic matter in the water. Bacteria require oxygen to carry out biological processes involved in breaking down the organic wastes, and BOD helps to estimate this oxygen demand.

Statement 3: It is expressed in milligrams of oxygen per liter of water.
This statement is correct. BOD is typically expressed in milligrams of oxygen required per liter of water (mg/L). It represents the amount of oxygen needed by microorganisms to oxidize the organic compounds present in the water.

Conclusion:
All three statements are correct. Water pollution caused by organic wastes is measured using Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), which represents the amount of dissolved oxygen required by bacteria and other microorganisms to decompose the organic matter in the water. BOD is expressed in milligrams of oxygen per liter of water, providing a quantitative measure of water pollution. Monitoring BOD levels is essential for assessing the impact of organic pollution and implementing effective pollution control measures.

Which of the following is not a control measure for light pollution?
  • a)
    Using energy-efficient bulbs.
  • b)
    Increasing the brightness of outdoor lighting.
  • c)
    Using bulbs with the right spectral power distributions.
  • d)
    Using light only when necessary.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Aarya Dey answered


Increasing the brightness of outdoor lighting:
Increasing the brightness of outdoor lighting is not a control measure for light pollution. In fact, it exacerbates the problem by adding to the overall illumination of the night sky, leading to increased light pollution.

Control Measures for Light Pollution:

Using energy-efficient bulbs:
Using energy-efficient bulbs can help reduce light pollution as they consume less electricity and emit less light. This can lead to a decrease in the overall brightness of outdoor lighting, thereby mitigating light pollution.

Using bulbs with the right spectral power distributions:
Bulbs with the right spectral power distributions emit light in specific wavelengths that are less likely to contribute to light pollution. By using such bulbs, it is possible to minimize the impact on the night sky and surrounding environment.

Using light only when necessary:
One of the most effective ways to control light pollution is to use light only when necessary. This means turning off unnecessary outdoor lighting, using motion sensors or timers to control lighting, and adopting responsible lighting practices to reduce light pollution.

Therefore, increasing the brightness of outdoor lighting is not a suitable control measure for light pollution, as it goes against the principles of reducing unnecessary illumination and preserving the natural darkness of the night sky.

Consider the following statements regarding the formation of smog:
1. Photochemical smog is a term used to describe air pollution that is a result of the interaction of sunlight with certain chemicals in the atmosphere.
2. Ground-level ozone is formed when vehicle emissions contain nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Kavita Mehta answered
  • Photochemical smog (smog) is a term used to describe air pollution that is a result of the interaction of sunlight with certain chemicals in the atmosphere.
  • One of the primary components of photochemical smog is ozone.
  • Ground-level ozone is formed when vehicle emissions containing nitrogen oxides (primarily from vehicle exhaust) and volatile organic compounds (from paints, solvents, printing inks, petroleum products, vehicles, etc.) interact in the presence of sunlight.

Statement 1: Thermal pollution primarily occurs from industrial activities like discharging hot water from factories.
Statement 2: Thermal pollution only affects the temperature of the water bodies and has no impact on the aquatic life.
  • a)
    Both statements are true.
  • b)
    Statement 1 is true, but Statement 2 is false.
  • c)
    Both statements are false.
  • d)
    Statement 1 is false, but Statement 2 is true.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Niharika Roy answered
Statement Analysis:

Statement 1: Thermal pollution primarily occurs from industrial activities like discharging hot water from factories.
- This statement is true. Thermal pollution is caused by the release of heated water into natural bodies of water, often from industrial processes like power plants, factories, and other facilities.

Statement 2: Thermal pollution only affects the temperature of the water bodies and has no impact on the aquatic life.
- This statement is false. Thermal pollution can have detrimental effects on aquatic life. Increased water temperatures can decrease oxygen levels, disrupt ecosystems, and even lead to the death of aquatic organisms. Many species of fish and other aquatic organisms have specific temperature requirements for survival, and thermal pollution can disrupt these delicate balances.

Conclusion:
- While Statement 1 correctly identifies the source of thermal pollution, Statement 2 is inaccurate in claiming that thermal pollution has no impact on aquatic life. In reality, thermal pollution can have significant negative effects on the ecosystems of water bodies where it occurs.

In the context of acid rain, which metal's increased concentration in drinking water is linked to renal tubular damage?
  • a)
    Mercury
  • b)
    Aluminium
  • c)
    Cadmium
  • d)
    Lead
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Bhaskar Datta answered
Renal Tubular Damage in Drinking Water due to Increased Cadmium Concentration
Increased concentration of cadmium in drinking water as a result of acid rain can lead to renal tubular damage. Cadmium is a toxic metal that is released into the environment through industrial processes, mining activities, and the burning of fossil fuels. When cadmium enters the body through contaminated water sources, it can accumulate in the kidneys and cause damage to the renal tubules.

Renal Tubular Damage:
- Cadmium has been associated with renal tubular damage, which can lead to impaired kidney function and ultimately kidney disease.
- The renal tubules are responsible for filtering waste and reabsorbing essential nutrients from the blood, so damage to these structures can disrupt the kidney's ability to regulate fluid and electrolyte balance.

Acid Rain and Cadmium Contamination:
- Acid rain can increase the leaching of cadmium from soil and rocks into water sources, contaminating drinking water supplies.
- The acidic nature of acid rain can also increase the solubility of cadmium, making it more readily available for absorption by the body.

Health Implications:
- Chronic exposure to cadmium through contaminated drinking water has been linked to an increased risk of kidney damage, renal tubular dysfunction, and kidney disease.
- Renal tubular damage can manifest as proteinuria, glycosuria, aminoaciduria, and other indicators of impaired kidney function.
In conclusion, the increased concentration of cadmium in drinking water due to acid rain can have serious health implications, particularly in terms of renal tubular damage. It is important to monitor water quality and take steps to reduce cadmium contamination to protect public health.

Which of the following are the effects of soil pollution on agriculture:
1. Increased salinity.
2. Loss of soil and nutrients.
3. Increased nitrogen fixation.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
    All of the above
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Anagha Kaur answered


Effects of Soil Pollution on Agriculture:

Increased salinity:
- Soil pollution can lead to an increase in salinity levels in the soil, making it unsuitable for plant growth.
- High salinity can hinder the absorption of water and essential nutrients by plants, ultimately affecting their growth and productivity.

Loss of soil and nutrients:
- Soil pollution can result in the loss of soil structure and fertility due to the accumulation of harmful chemicals and pollutants.
- This can lead to a decrease in the availability of essential nutrients for plant growth, affecting crop yields and overall agricultural productivity.

Incorrect Statement:
Increased nitrogen fixation:
- Soil pollution does not lead to an increase in nitrogen fixation. Instead, it can disrupt the nitrogen cycle and negatively impact soil health and fertility.

Therefore, the correct statements regarding the effects of soil pollution on agriculture are:
- Increased salinity
- Loss of soil and nutrients

Hence, the correct answer is option 'A'.

Statement 1: Under the Environment Protection Act, 1986, the Central Government can regulate the supply of electricity and water without a court order for environmental protection.
Statement 2: This Act overrides any inconsistent provisions in other enactments, except for the Act itself.
  • a)
    Both statements are true.
  • b)
    Statement 1 is true, but Statement 2 is false.
  • c)
    Both statements are false.
  • d)
    Statement 1 is false, but Statement 2 is true.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanaya Basak answered
Overview of the Environment Protection Act, 1986
The Environment Protection Act, 1986 is a comprehensive legislation aimed at protecting and improving the environment in India. It grants the Central Government significant powers to ensure environmental safety.
Statement 1: Regulation of Resources
- The Act empowers the Central Government to regulate various aspects of environmental protection, including the supply of electricity and water.
- It allows the government to take necessary actions to prevent environmental degradation without needing a court order.
- This means that in the interest of environmental protection, the government can intervene in resource management proactively.
Statement 2: Supremacy of the Act
- The Act indeed has a provision that it overrides any inconsistent provisions in other laws or enactments.
- However, it is essential to note that this supremacy is applicable to other laws but does not extend to the Act itself, meaning the provisions within the Act cannot contradict each other.
- This ensures a cohesive framework for environmental regulation without internal conflicts.
Conclusion
- Both statements are true as they accurately reflect the powers granted to the Central Government under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
- Hence, the correct answer is option 'A', affirming the authority of the government in regulating resources for environmental protection and the supremacy of the Act over other inconsistent laws.
This understanding is crucial for UPSC aspirants, as it reflects the legislative framework governing environmental policies in India.

Consider the following statements about the Ozone:
1. It releases mainly from air-conditioning systems and refrigeration.
2. Vehicles and industries are the major source of ground-level ozone emissions.
Which of these statements is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Prerna Ahuja answered
**Answer:**

The correct statement out of the given options is **2 only**. Let's understand why this is the correct answer.

1. **Statement 1: It releases mainly from air-conditioning systems and refrigeration.**
This statement is incorrect. Ozone is not released mainly from air-conditioning systems and refrigeration. Ozone is a naturally occurring gas in the Earth's atmosphere. It is formed primarily in the upper atmosphere, or stratosphere, through a process involving the interaction of sunlight with oxygen molecules. Ozone is also produced by lightning and certain chemical reactions. It acts as a protective layer against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

2. **Statement 2: Vehicles and industries are the major source of ground-level ozone emissions.**
This statement is correct. Ground-level ozone is formed by the reaction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. The primary sources of these pollutants are vehicles and industries. Vehicle emissions, including exhaust and evaporation from fuel, contribute to the release of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. Industries, especially those involved in manufacturing, power generation, and chemical production, also emit significant amounts of these pollutants.

Ground-level ozone is a harmful air pollutant and a major component of smog. It can have detrimental effects on human health, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma. It can also damage crops, forests, and other vegetation.

To summarize, ozone is not released mainly from air-conditioning systems and refrigeration (statement 1 is incorrect). Vehicles and industries are indeed the major sources of ground-level ozone emissions (statement 2 is correct). Therefore, the correct answer is **option B: 2 only**.

Match the following pollutants with their primary sources:
  • a)
    1-C, 2-A, 3-B
  • b)
    1-A, 2-B, 3-C
  • c)
    1-C, 2-B, 3-A
  • d)
    1-B, 2-C, 3-A
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Lohit Matani answered
Sulphur Dioxide predominantly comes from burning coal and petroleum, Nitrogen Oxides from natural sources like lightning and volcanic eruptions, and Formic Acid from biomass burning during forest fires.

Acid rain has a significant impact on:
  • a)
    Only soil and water bodies
  • b)
    Soil, water bodies, and vegetation
  • c)
    Soil, vegetation, and wildlife only
  • d)
    Soil, water bodies, vegetation, wildlife, and human health
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Lohit Matani answered
Acid rain impacts soil, water bodies, vegetation, wildlife, and human health in various ways, including affecting soil fertility, aquatic life, plant growth, and contributing to human diseases.

Match the following measures with their respective environmental concerns:
  • a)
    A-1, B-2, C-3
  • b)
    A-3, B-1, C-2
  • c)
    A-2, B-3, C-1
  • d)
    A-1, B-3, C-2
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

BT Educators answered
Maintaining vegetation can help mitigate thermal pollution, using light only when necessary addresses light pollution, and increasing the thickness of carry bags is a measure against plastic pollution.

Match the following environmental issues with their respective effects:
  • a)
    A-2, B-1, C-3
  • b)
    A-3, B-2, C-1
  • c)
    A-1, B-3, C-2
  • d)
    A-3, B-1, C-2
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Lakshya Ias answered
Thermal pollution primarily impacts aquatic life such as fish and macroinvertebrates. Light pollution disrupts circadian rhythms. Plastic pollution adversely affects marine biodiversity.

Match the following Acts with their respective amendments:
  • a)
    A-2, B-3, C-1
  • b)
    A-1, B-2, C-3
  • c)
    A-3, B-1, C-2
  • d)
    A-1, B-3, C-2
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

The Environment Protection Act Amendment 2022 replaced imprisonment with fines. The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 extended to rural areas. The Amendment Rules, 2021 increased the thickness of plastic carry bags.

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