Q17 · UPSC Prelims 2021 · Set A · Environment and Ecology

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Why is there a concern about copper smelting plants?1.They may release lethal quantities of carbon monoxide into environment.2.The copper slag can cause the leaching of some heavy metals into environment.3.They may release sulphur dioxide as a pollutant.Select the correct answer using the code given below

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

Correct answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation

  1. A

    1 and 2 only

    1 and 2 only. Lethal CO is not the distinctive smelter scare as keyed; SO2 and slag metals are.

  2. B

    2 and 3 only

    2 and 3 only. Copper slag can leach metals; smelters emit SO2. Statement 1 over-claims carbon monoxide.

  3. C

    1 and 3 only

    1 and 3 only. Slag leaching is also true.

  4. D

    1, 2 and 3

    All three. Statement 1 is the miss.

Summary. Official key is (b) 2 and 3 only. Copper smelting is a sulphur-dioxide and slag/heavy-metal story. Lethal carbon monoxide is not the keyed plant risk here.

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