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
Explanation
The correct answer is B, 2 and 3 only. Copper smelting is a concern for its sulphur dioxide emissions and for heavy metals leaching from its slag, not for lethal carbon monoxide.
Most copper comes from sulphide ores such as chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). When these ores are roasted and smelted, the sulphur is driven off as sulphur dioxide, which causes acid rain and respiratory illness unless captured, usually by converting it into sulphuric acid. The waste slag left after smelting contains traces of arsenic, lead, cadmium, zinc and other metals that can leach into soil and groundwater when the slag is dumped in the open. Such worries drove protests against copper smelters in India.
A is wrong: it includes statement 1; carbon monoxide comes from incomplete burning of fuel and is not the hallmark pollutant of copper smelters.
C is wrong: it includes statement 1 and leaves out the slag problem in statement 2.
D is wrong: statement 1 is not a recognised concern, so all three cannot be right.
Exam tip: sulphide ores + smelting = SO2; slag dumps = heavy-metal leaching.
Practice Questions
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- A.biome
- B.community
- C.abiotic environment
- D.ecosystem
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I. Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in India are less than 0.5 t CO2/capita.
II. In terms of CO2 emissions from fuel combustion, India ranks second in Asia-Pacific region.
III. Electricity and heat producers are the largest sources of CO2 emissions in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.I and III only
- B.II only
- C.II and III only
- D.I, II and III
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- B.Granting licences to foreign T.V. channels in our country
- C.Exporting our food products to other countries
- D.Permitting foreign educational institutions to set up their campuses in our country
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- A.Creating the artificial rains in some regions
- B.Reducing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones
- C.Reducing the adverse effects of solar wind on the Earth
- D.Reducing the global warming
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Read the full explanation →Which of the following have species that can establish symbiotic relationship with other organisms?
1. Cnidarians
2. Fungi
3. Protozoa
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
Show answer
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