Q79 · UPSC Prelims 2020 · Set A · Environment and Ecology

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Consider the following statements:1.Coal ash contains arsenic, lead and mercury.2.Coal-fired power plants release sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen into the environment.3.High ash content is observed in Indian coal.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A 1 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3

Correct answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

  1. A

    1 only

    1 only. SO2/NOx and high Indian ash are also true.

  2. B

    2 and 3 only

    2 and 3 only. Trace metals in ash also hold.

  3. C

    3 only

    3 only. Under-counts.

  4. D

    1, 2 and 3

    All three. Fly ash carries As, Pb, Hg; stacks emit SO2 and NOx; Indian coal is high-ash.

Summary. Official key is (d) 1, 2 and 3. Coal ash holds toxic metals, coal plants emit sulphur and nitrogen oxides, and Indian thermal coal is high in ash compared with many traded coals.

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