Test: Pollution - SSC CGL MCQ

The biosphere includes both abiotic components (like the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere) and biotic components, which are the living organisms that interact within these environments. This integration of living and non-living elements is essential for the functioning of ecosystems and the sustenance of life on Earth.

The stratosphere is the atmospheric layer that contains the ozone layer, which plays a vital role in absorbing nearly 99.5% of harmful UV radiation from the Sun. This absorption protects living organisms on Earth from the detrimental effects of excessive UV exposure.

The lithosphere is the solid, rocky outer layer of the Earth that extends from the surface down to the depths of the planet. It consists of minerals and covers vast areas, providing a foundation for various ecosystems and supporting life forms on Earth.

The two main types of atmospheric pollution are tropospheric and stratospheric. Tropospheric pollution occurs closer to the Earth's surface and can be either gaseous or particulate, while stratospheric pollution affects the stratosphere, involving different pollutants.

Primary pollutants are substances that remain in the environment in their original form, like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, while secondary pollutants are formed through the chemical reactions of primary pollutants. This distinction is crucial in understanding the complex interactions leading to atmospheric pollution.

Pollutants from the iron and steel industry include sulfur dioxide (SO₂), along with other pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, lead, and various metals. These pollutants contribute significantly to air, water, and soil pollution, highlighting the environmental impact of industrial activities.

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) can cause respiratory problems like bronchitis and asthma in humans, as well as issues with chloroplast formation in plants. This gas is highly toxic and can lead to eye and throat irritation as well. In plants, it affects chloroplast formation, leading to chlorosis.

Carbon monoxide (CO) forms a stable complex with hemoglobin in the blood, reducing oxygen transport to organs and tissues. This leads to symptoms like headaches, weakness, and asphyxia. The carboxyhemoglobin complex is much more stable than the oxygen-hemoglobin complex, resulting in decreased oxygen delivery to the body's cells.

The primary difference between classical smog and photochemical smog lies in their environmental conditions. Classical smog occurs in cool, humid climates and is predominantly a mix of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and particulate matter. In contrast, photochemical smog is found in warm, dry climates and results from the interaction of primary pollutants like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide with secondary pollutants such as ozone and formaldehyde.

The ozone layer in the stratosphere primarily serves to absorb harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun, thereby protecting living organisms on Earth from the damaging effects of excessive UV exposure.

The primary cause of ozone depletion is chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). These substances, commonly used in various products such as refrigeration systems and aerosol sprays, persist in the atmosphere and are broken down by UV rays, releasing chlorine atoms that destroy ozone molecules.

The utilization of carbon dioxide as a blowing agent in polystyrene foam production serves to eliminate the requirement for ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). This environmentally conscious approach helps in reducing the harmful impact on the ozone layer, aligning with the principles of green chemistry.

Recycling plays a crucial role in pollution control strategies by transforming waste into useful products or energy sources. This process helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or incinerators, thereby conserving natural resources and reducing pollution. By recycling materials like scrap metal in steel manufacturing or recovering energy from combusted waste, environmental impact is minimized, contributing to a more sustainable approach to waste management.

Biogas production offers a significant advantage in pollution control strategies by generating renewable energy through the digestion of biodegradable waste. This process not only helps in waste management but also contributes to the production of a sustainable energy source. By converting organic materials into biogas and manure, biogas production provides a dual benefit of waste treatment and energy generation.

Treating sewage sludge before discharge is crucial to prevent the contamination of water sources. Untreated sewage sludge can contain harmful pathogens, chemicals, and pollutants that, if released into water bodies, can have detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems and human health. By ensuring proper treatment of sewage sludge, the risk of water pollution is minimized, safeguarding the quality of water resources and protecting the environment.