Consider the following statements with reference to arsenic:1. It is a...
A new study underlines the risk of using water contaminated with arsenic to cook rice, a staple food serving more than half the world’s population.
- It is a naturally occurring, semi metallic element widely distributed in the Earth’s crust.
- It is widely distributed throughout the environment in the air, water and land.
- It is a chemical element in the nitrogen group (Group 15 of the periodic table), existing in both gray and yellow crystalline forms.
- It is highly toxic in its inorganic form.
- People are exposed to elevated levels of inorganic arsenic through drinking contaminated water, using contaminated water in food preparation and irrigation of food crops, industrial processes, eating contaminated food and smoking tobacco.
- Health Impacts: Long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic, mainly through drinking-water and food, can lead to chronic arsenic poisoning. Skin lesions and skin cancer are the most characteristic effects.
- In India, the states of West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Manipur and Chhattisgarh are reported to be most affected by arsenic contamination of groundwater above the permissible level.
Hence both statements are correct.
View all questions of this test
Consider the following statements with reference to arsenic:1. It is a...
Explanation:
Arsenic is a naturally occurring semi-metallic element that is found in the Earth's crust. It is commonly found in combination with other elements such as oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur.
Toxicity:
Arsenic is highly toxic in its inorganic form. Inorganic arsenic compounds are known to be carcinogenic and can have detrimental effects on human health. Chronic exposure to arsenic can lead to various health issues including skin lesions, cardiovascular diseases, neurotoxicity, and even cancer. Therefore, it is important to limit exposure to arsenic and avoid consuming contaminated water or food.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both statements are correct. Arsenic is indeed a naturally occurring element present in the Earth's crust, and its inorganic form is highly toxic to humans and other organisms. It is essential to be aware of the potential dangers associated with arsenic exposure and take necessary precautions to prevent negative health outcomes.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.