Q1. Which heavy metal is associated with brain damage in children due to acid rain mobilization?
- Copper
- Lead
- Zinc
- Mercury
Correct Option: 2. Lead.
Explanation: Lead (Pb) can leach into drinking water systems, especially in areas with acidic rain, which increases the solubility of metals in pipes. Elevated blood lead levels in children can cause neurodevelopmental issues, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems.
Q2. Mycoremediation involves the use of:
- Bacteria
- Algae
- Fungi
- Plants
Correct Option: 3. Fungi.
Explanation: Mycoremediation is a form of bioremediation that uses fungi, particularly their mycelium, to absorb and break down pollutants. Fungi produce powerful enzymes capable of decomposing complex organic pollutants, such as petroleum and pesticides.
Q3. Which category of industries in India does NOT require Environmental Clearance?
- Red
- Orange
- Green
- White
Correct Option: 4. White.
Explanation: The White category includes non-polluting industries (e.g., chalk making, solar power generation). These industries are exempt from Environmental Clearance and Consent from Pollution Control Boards. The categorization is based on Pollution Index (PI).
Q4. Acid rain can leach which of the following from soils, affecting aquatic life and human health?
- Iron
- Aluminium
- Magnesium
- Chloride
Correct Option: 2. Aluminium.
Explanation: Acid rain increases the solubility of aluminum in soils. This mobilized aluminum can enter water bodies, where it is toxic to aquatic organisms. In humans, aluminum exposure has been linked to neurological disorders, especially in those with kidney impairment.
Q5. Which of the following is not a disadvantage of bioremediation?
- Not all compounds are biodegradable
- Bioprocesses are time-consuming
- It produces harmful by-products
- Field results may differ from lab results
Correct Option: 3. It produces harmful by-products.
Explanation: Bioremediation is an eco-friendly process that typically does not produce harmful by-products. However, it does have limitations, including being effective only on biodegradable compounds, often requiring more time, and showing varied results in field applications compared to controlled lab settings.