Environmental issues have become an essential topic in many competitive exams, including NEET. For medical aspirants, a good understanding of environmental science is crucial. Here, we present 20 multiple-choice questions related to environmental issues, followed by answers and explanations.
1. Which of the following is the main greenhouse gas responsible for global warming?
Answer:
Explanation:
Carbon Dioxide contributes the most to global warming by trapping heat in the Earth's atmosphere, although other gases like methane also play significant roles.
2. The term ‘BOD’ refers to:
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Explanation:
BOD measures the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to decompose organic substances in water, indicative of water quality.
3. Which among the following is a non-renewable resource?
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Explanation:
Natural gas is a fossil fuel and is therefore considered non-renewable, unlike solar, wind, and biomass which are renewable.
4. The ozone layer is mainly found in which layer of the atmosphere?
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Explanation:
The ozone layer is mainly located in the stratosphere, where it absorbs and scatters ultraviolet solar radiation.
5. Which organization publishes the ‘Red List’ of endangered species?
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Explanation:
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) publishes the Red List, cataloging the conservation status of species.
6. Which country is the largest emitter of Carbon Dioxide in the world?
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Explanation:
As of the latest data, China is the largest emitter of Carbon Dioxide, contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions.
7. What is the main cause of Coral Bleaching?
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Explanation:
Elevated sea temperatures cause corals to expel the algae living in their tissues, leading to coral bleaching.
8. Which gas is responsible for the acid rain phenomenon?
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Explanation:
Nitrogen Dioxide and Sulphur Dioxide react with water vapor in the atmosphere to form acids, which fall as acid rain.
9. Which of the following is a renewable source of energy?
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Explanation:
Wind energy is renewable and sustainable, unlike fossil fuels like coal, petroleum, and natural gas.
10. Which protocol aims at reducing the emission of gases that deplete the ozone layer?
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Explanation:
The Montreal Protocol aims at reducing and eventually eliminating the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances.
11. Which of the following is a biodiversity hotspot in India?
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Explanation:
The Western Ghats is one of the biodiversity hotspots in India, hosting a high diversity of plant and animal species.
12. The device which can remove particulate matter present in the exhaust from a thermal power plant is:
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Explanation:
An Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP) is a filtration device that removes fine particles, like dust and smoke, from a flowing gas using the force of an induced electrostatic charge minimally impeding the flow of gases through the unit. In a thermal power plant, it is used to control the emissions of particulate matter from the exhaust.
13. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which particulate size is considered most harmful to humans?
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Explanation:
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), particulate matter of size PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers and smaller) is considered most harmful to humans. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing various health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
14. Which of the following is considered a secondary pollutant?
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Explanation:
Ozone (O3) is considered a secondary pollutant as it is not directly emitted by any source. Instead, it forms in the atmosphere through chemical reactions between primary pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), in the presence of sunlight. These reactions lead to the formation of ozone, which is a major component of smog and can have harmful effects on human health and the environment.
15. The depletion of which layer is responsible for skin cancer?
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Explanation:
The depletion of the ozone layer allows more harmful ultraviolet radiation to reach the Earth's surface, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
16. Which of the following is a non-biodegradable waste?
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Explanation:
Plastic is non-biodegradable as it does not break down naturally by biological processes, causing environmental pollution.
17. Which source of energy is considered the most sustainable?
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Explanation:
Solar energy is renewable, abundant, and sustainable, causing minimal environmental impact compared to fossil fuels and nuclear energy.
18. The primary benefit of CNG over petrol and diesel is:
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Explanation:
CNG produces fewer emissions and is cleaner-burning compared to petrol and diesel, making it environmentally favorable.
19. Which of the following is a method for water conservation?
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Explanation:
Rainwater harvesting is an effective method for conserving water by collecting and storing rainwater for later use.
20. The primary objective of the Ramsar Convention is to:
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Explanation:
The Ramsar Convention aims at the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local and national actions and international cooperation.