Magnetite particles, suspected to cause neurodegenerative problems, are generated as environmental pollutants from which of the following?

  1. Brakes of motor vehicles
  2. Engines of motor vehicles
  3. Microwave stoves within homes
  4. Power plants
  5. Telephone line

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2021 Prelims]

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only

(c) 3, 4 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5


Answer: (b)        

Explanation:

  • Magnetite particles are a highly magnetic mineral form of iron and are known to be present in air pollution.
  • Exposure to airborne particulate matter (PM) is associated with pulmonary, cardiovascular and neurological problems.
  • Magnetite, a mixed Fe2+/Fe3+ oxide, is ubiquitous and abundant in PM in urban environments and might play a specific role in both neurodegeneration and cardiovascular disease.
  • Magnetite has been found in homing pigeons, migratory salmon and even bats, and is believed to play a role in their directional orientation.
  • Vehicle brake systems are the major source of airborne magnetite at the roadside. Hence statement 1 is correct.
  • Petrol and diesel-engine exhaust are also a source of airborne magnetite. Hence statement 2 is correct.
  • Other sources of Magnetite pollution include Power plants. Hence statements 4 is correct.

Consider the following statements:                                                                   The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

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Consider the following statements:                                                         The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

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