Question

The gas leaked from a storage tank of the Union Carbide plant in Bhopal gas tragedy was: (a) Ammonia (b) Phosgene (c) Methylisocynate (d) Methylamine

Short answer

The gas leaked was (c) Methylisocyanate.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Incident

The Bhopal gas tragedy is a reference to a major industrial disaster that occurred in Bhopal, India, in December 1984, and involved the leakage of a hazardous chemical from a plant.

Recall the Key Chemical

The chemical that leaked during the Bhopal gas tragedy was highly toxic and is well-documented in historical records. This chemical was methyl isocyanate, which is crucial in the context of the incident.

Match with Options

Compare the known chemical involved in the Bhopal tragedy, methyl isocyanate, with the options provided in the exercise: (a) Ammonia, (b) Phosgene, (c) Methylisocynate, (d) Methylamine. The chemical that matches is option (c), 'Methylisocynate', correcting the spelling to 'Methyl Isocyanate'.

Key concepts

Industrial Disaster

When we talk about industrial disasters, we're referring to accidents that occur in industrial settings like factories or chemical plants. These incidents often lead to serious harm, not just to people but to the environment as well. Unfortunately, such disasters can result from various factors. Common causes include poor safety measures, equipment failure, or human error. They can have devastating consequences, including injuries, loss of life, and long-term environmental damage.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy is one of the most tragic industrial disasters in history. This event took place in Bhopal, India, in December 1984. It was caused by the release of methyl isocyanate gas from a chemical plant owned by Union Carbide India Limited. The disaster had a severe impact, resulting in many casualties and long-lasting health issues for those exposed to the gas. The Bhopal Gas Tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by industrial activities and the importance of stringent safety protocols.

Methyl Isocyanate

Methyl isocyanate (MIC) is a highly toxic chemical, which played a central role in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. It's a colorless, volatile liquid, primarily used in the manufacture of pesticides. When exposed to the atmosphere, it quickly vaporizes, making it exceptionally hazardous to both humans and the environment.

Due to its properties, MIC requires careful handling and storage. If it escapes into the environment, it can cause severe respiratory issues, eye irritation, and skin burns. In high enough concentrations, exposure is often lethal.

During the tragedy at Bhopal, the lack of proper safety measures and malfunctioning storage tanks resulted in the accidental release of MIC. The tragedy highlighted the critical need for proper chemical management and that even small lapses in safety protocols can lead to catastrophic consequences.

Chemical Safety

Ensuring chemical safety is crucial in any industry that handles hazardous substances like methyl isocyanate. Chemical safety involves implementing practices and regulations to prevent accidents and manage risks associated with the handling of chemicals. By instituting strict safety precautions and compliance with safety regulations, the risk of an industrial disaster can be significantly reduced.

Essential components of chemical safety include proper storage conditions, adequate training for workers, and having emergency plans in place. Additionally, regular maintenance and inspection of equipment can identify potential issues before they lead to an incident.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy emphasized the importance of these safety measures. The incident was a wake-up call to industries worldwide about the need for rigorous safety standards. It made clear that chemical safety isn't just about preventing immediate disasters but ensuring the long-term health and safety of people and the surrounding environment.