Question

Biodegradable pollutant is: (a) DDT (b) Domestic waste (c) Aluminium foil (d) Mercury salt

Short answer

The biodegradable pollutant is (b) Domestic waste.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Term 'Biodegradable'

The term 'biodegradable' refers to substances that can be broken down into smaller components by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, over time, resulting in substances that are not harmful to the environment.

Analyzing Option (a): DDT

DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane) is a chemical compound that was widely used as a pesticide. It is known for being persistent in the environment and resistant to degradation by natural processes, making it non-biodegradable.

Analyzing Option (b): Domestic waste

Domestic waste refers to garbage or refuse from households, which often contains organic materials that microorganisms can decompose. These organic materials, such as food scraps, are typically biodegradable.

Analyzing Option (c): Aluminium foil

Aluminium foil is a metal product that does not decompose through biological processes. Microorganisms cannot break down metals, so aluminium foil is considered non-biodegradable.

Analyzing Option (d): Mercury salt

Mercury salts are chemical compounds containing mercury, a toxic heavy metal. They are not broken down by microorganisms due to their inorganic nature, making them non-biodegradable.

Identifying the Biodegradable Pollutant

Among the given options, domestic waste is the only one that typically contains biodegradable materials because it includes organic matter that can be decomposed by microorganisms.

Key concepts

Biodegradation

Biodegradation is the natural process where microorganisms like bacteria and fungi break down organic substances into simpler compounds. This process is essential for the recycling of nutrients in ecosystems. For biodegradation to occur effectively, certain conditions must be met: the substance must be organic, meaning it originated from a living organism. Water is usually required, and a suitable temperature and pH level can facilitate optimal breakdown. Biodegradation is the backbone of waste management in nature. It helps in converting waste into harmless substances, often resulting in water, carbon dioxide, and biomass, which enriches the soil. It is important to recognize biodegradable pollutants because they have less impact on the environment, unlike their non-biodegradable counterparts. When waste is not biodegradable, it tends to persist in the environment and can lead to pollution and ecosystem disturbances.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science is a multidisciplinary field that studies the environment and the solution of environmental problems. It integrates physical, biological, and information sciences to examine how natural and human-made environments interact. Important aspects of environmental science include:

• Ecology: The study of interactions between organisms and their environment.
• Pollution Control: Strategies for reducing waste and managing natural resources sustainably.
• Conservation: Efforts to protect endangered species and conserve natural habitats.

Understanding biodegradation is crucial in environmental science because it helps scientists develop strategies to manage waste and pollutants sustainably, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Organic Waste Decomposition

Organic waste decomposition refers to the breakdown of organic materials, such as food scraps, plant matter, and animal waste, by microorganisms. This natural recycling process is key to maintaining healthy soil ecosystems and returning nutrients back to the earth. During decomposition, microbes consume organic matter, releasing carbon dioxide, water, and other simpler substances. The end product humus, enriches soil, aiding plant growth. The process is influenced by factors such as:

• Temperature: Warmer conditions often speed up decomposition.
• Moisture: Adequate water levels are necessary for microbial activity.
• Oxygen: Many decomposers require oxygen to thrive.

By understanding these factors, we can enhance composting methods for efficient organic waste management.

Non-Biodegradable Substances

Non-biodegradable substances are materials that microbes cannot decompose. Such substances persist in the environment for many years, often causing pollution and harmful ecological effects. Common examples include plastics, metals like aluminum foil, and certain chemicals such as DDT. These compounds often require special disposal or recycling processes due to their lasting nature. Their presence in ecosystems can harm wildlife and disrupt natural cycles. To minimize their negative impact, it is crucial to reduce the use of non-biodegradable materials and find sustainable alternatives. Recycling programs and advancements in material science aimed at developing biodegradable substitutes are essential steps toward a more sustainable future.