Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion (A) ...
Substances like polythene bags and plastics are non- biodegradable because they cannot be broken down by micro-organisms into simpler harmless substances in nature. Substances that can be broken down by microorganisms in natural simple harmless substances are biodegradable substances.
View all questions of this test
Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion (A) ...
Assertion : Polythene bags and plastic containers are non-biodegradable substances.
Reason: They can be broken down by microorganisms into natural simple harmless substances.
The correct answer is option 'C', i.e., Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
Explanation:
Polythene bags and plastic containers are indeed non-biodegradable substances. Biodegradable substances are those that can be broken down by microorganisms into natural simple harmless substances. However, the reason given here is incorrect because polythene bags and plastic containers cannot be broken down by microorganisms into natural harmless substances.
Here is a detailed explanation of why Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false:
Polythene bags and plastic containers are non-biodegradable substances:
- Polythene bags and plastic containers are made from synthetic polymers, primarily polyethylene and polypropylene.
- These synthetic polymers are derived from petroleum or natural gas, which are non-renewable fossil fuels.
- These polymers are composed of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms, which make them highly resistant to degradation by natural processes.
- Due to their chemical structure, polythene bags and plastic containers cannot be broken down by microorganisms like bacteria and fungi.
- As a result, they persist in the environment for hundreds of years, causing pollution and harm to ecosystems.
Reason: They can be broken down by microorganisms into natural simple harmless substances:
- This reason is incorrect because polythene bags and plastic containers cannot be broken down by microorganisms.
- Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, require specific conditions and enzymes to degrade organic matter.
- While some types of plastics, such as biodegradable plastics, can be broken down by certain microorganisms under specific conditions, polythene bags and plastic containers are not biodegradable.
- These plastics do not provide the necessary nutrients or structure for microorganisms to break them down.
- As a result, they persist in the environment, causing pollution and posing a threat to wildlife.
In conclusion, while the assertion that polythene bags and plastic containers are non-biodegradable substances is true, the reason provided, stating that they can be broken down by microorganisms into natural harmless substances, is false.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 10 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 10.