Q1. Which type of radiation is most likely to cause genetic mutations and long-term effects like cancer?
- Non-ionising radiation
- Infrared radiation
- Ionising radiation
- Microwave radiation
Correct Option: 3. Ionising radiation
Explanation: Ionising radiation (such as X-rays, gamma rays, and cosmic rays) has high penetration power and can break molecular bonds in DNA, leading to genetic mutations, cancer, and other long-term effects. Non-ionising radiation (like infrared or microwave) has much lower energy and does not cause such damage.
Q2. Leaching in landfills refers to:
- Soil erosion by wind
- Mixing of soil with radioactive material
- Contamination of groundwater due to seepage from landfills
- Evaporation of waste water
Correct Option: 3. Contamination of groundwater due to seepage from landfills
Explanation: Rainwater passing through waste carries toxins that contaminate soil and water—this process is called leaching.
Q3. Which of the following waste types is considered hazardous?
- Fruit peels
- Kitchen waste
- Discarded plastic bottles
- Waste from pesticide industries
Correct Option: 4. Waste from pesticide industries
Explanation: Hazardous waste is toxic, corrosive, or explosive. Waste from pesticide industries fits this category.
Q4. What is vermiculture in solid waste management?
- Burning garbage in open dumps
- Using acid to digest waste
- Using worms to decompose organic waste
- Using heat to convert waste to ash
Correct Option: 3. Using worms to decompose organic waste
Explanation: Vermiculture uses earthworms to turn biodegradable waste into compost rich in nutrients.
Q5. Which radioactive particle can be stopped simply by human skin or a sheet of paper?
- Beta particles
- Gamma rays
- X-rays
- Alpha particles
Correct Option: 4. Alpha particles
Explanation: Alpha particles are heavy and carry a double positive charge, but they have very low penetration power. They can be stopped by a sheet of paper or the outer layer of human skin, making them relatively safe unless inhaled or ingested.
In contrast, beta particles can penetrate skin, and gamma rays and X-rays are much more penetrating and dangerous.