Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?

  1. Automobile exhaust
  2. Tobacco smoke
  3. Wood burning
  4. Using varnished wooden furniture
  5. Using products made of polyurethane

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2020 Prelims]

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

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


Answer: (d)        

Explanation:

  • Benzene is a liquid chemical that is colorless or light yellow at room temperature.
  • It is highly flammable and only slightly soluble in water, meaning it floats on top of it.
  • Benzene is both naturally occurring and produced by human activities. It is found in crude oil and is a by-product of oil-refining processes.
  • Exposure to benzene is linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including lymphatic and hematopoietic cancers and acute myelogenous leukaemia.
  • Benzene is used to make many other chemicals, such as plastics, synthetic fibers, rubbers, dyes, drugs, and pesticides.
  • It is also used in paints, glues, and furniture wax.
  • Benzene can contaminate surface waters and soil through rain due to its solubility in water.
  • Chronic exposure to benzene can cause aplastic anaemia, a condition where both red and white blood cell production is reduced.
  • Benzene is a by-product of tobacco combustion in cigarettes and is also found in wood smoke and automobile exhaust.

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:                                               

Read More »

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:                                               

Read More »

Useful Links

Download
Neyyar App

Left Menu Icon