Question

The correct statement among the following is (a) Carbon monoxide in air is a pollutant. (b) Methyl isocyanate in air is known as a contaminant. (c) The important sinks of most atmosphere gases are both occans and vegctation. (d) All the above are correct.

Short answer

The correct statements are (a) and (c).

Step-by-step solution

Understand the definition of a pollutant

A pollutant is a substance that, when present in the environment, has harmful effects. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a well-known air pollutant due to its toxicity and harmful impacts on human health.

Understand the definition of a contaminant

A contaminant is any substance that makes something impure or unclean. Methyl isocyanate can be considered a contaminant due to its dangerous properties; however, it is more commonly referred to as a highly toxic industrial chemical rather than just a contaminant.

Analyze sinks of atmospheric gases

Sinks for atmospheric gases are processes or places that absorb the gases. The primary sinks for most atmospheric gases include both oceans and vegetation, which help regulate atmospheric concentrations.

Evaluate the given options

Option (a) correctly identifies carbon monoxide as a pollutant. Option (b) misnames methyl isocyanate, as it is more than a mere contaminant. Option (c) correctly identifies oceans and vegetation as important sinks. Therefore, the most accurate answer is not all the options, but only (a) and (c).

Select the correct statement

Among the provided choices, only statements (a) and (c) are accurate.

Key concepts

Atmospheric Pollutants

Atmospheric pollutants are substances that, when released into the air, cause harm to living organisms and the environment. These pollutants can originate from various sources, including industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and natural events like wildfires. When pollutants enter the atmosphere, they can contribute to various environmental issues such as smog, acid rain, and climate change.
Common atmospheric pollutants include:

• Carbon monoxide (CO)
• Sulfur dioxide (SO₂)
• Nitrogen oxides (NO_x)
• Particulate matter (PM)

Understanding the types and sources of atmospheric pollutants helps in developing strategies to mitigate their harmful effects on health and the environment.

Carbon Monoxide Toxicity

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that poses significant health risks. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Common sources include car engines, gas heaters, and industrial processes. When inhaled, CO binds to hemoglobin in the blood, preventing it from carrying oxygen to cells and tissues.
The symptoms of CO poisoning can vary depending on the exposure level and can include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• In severe cases, it can lead to loss of consciousness and death

Preventing CO exposure involves ensuring proper ventilation, maintaining appliances, and using CO detectors in homes and workplaces.

Atmospheric Gas Sinks

Atmospheric gas sinks are natural or artificial processes and places that absorb and store gases from the atmosphere, helping to regulate their concentrations. The primary natural sinks in the atmosphere include:

• Oceans: They absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere through physical and biological processes, such as the dissolution of CO₂ in seawater and photosynthesis by marine organisms.
• Vegetation: Trees and plants absorb CO₂ during photosynthesis, converting it into oxygen and organic matter.

These sinks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of atmospheric gases, which is essential for sustaining life on Earth and mitigating climate change.

Methyl Isocyanate Hazard

Methyl isocyanate (MIC) is a highly toxic industrial chemical used in the production of pesticides and other chemicals. It is extremely hazardous to human health, and even short-term exposure can cause severe injury or death. The 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, where a massive leak of MIC occurred at a pesticide plant in India, is a stark reminder of its dangers.
The health effects of MIC exposure can include:

• Respiratory distress and irritation
• Eye irritation and damage
• Skin burns and blisters
• Long-term exposure can lead to chronic health issues such as lung damage and vision impairment

Safety measures for handling MIC include strict regulatory controls, proper storage, and effective emergency response plans to minimize the risks associated with this hazardous chemical.