Problem 16 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Biodegradable pollutant is (a) DDT (b) domestic waste (c) aluminium foil (d) mercury salt

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The biodegradable pollutant is (b) domestic waste.

Step 1: Understand Biodegradable Pollutants

Biodegradable pollutants are substances that can be broken down by natural biological processes, usually involving microorganisms like bacteria. These pollutants typically decompose over time and integrate into the natural environment without causing long-term harm.

Step 2: Analyze Each Option

Consider each option based on whether it is biodegradable: - (a) DDT: A synthetic pesticide known for long-lasting environmental persistence, thus non-biodegradable. - (b) Domestic Waste: Often includes organic matter, like food scraps, which microorganisms can decompose, thus biodegradable. - (c) Aluminum Foil: A metal that is resistant to degradation by natural processes, thus non-biodegradable. - (d) Mercury Salt: A toxic metal compound resistant to microbial decomposition, thus non-biodegradable.

Step 3: Choose the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, domestic waste is the only option that is typically biodegradable as it often contains organic material that decomposes naturally.

Key Concepts

Microorganisms

Microorganisms play a crucial role in the breakdown of biodegradable pollutants. These tiny living organisms include bacteria, fungi, and algae.
They use pollutants as a food source, breaking them down through metabolic processes. This transformation turns harmful substances into harmless products, often releasing carbon dioxide and biomass in the process. Different microorganisms are specialized to degrade various compounds. For instance:

• Bacteria: These are the most active and diverse group involved in biodegradation. They thrive in various environments and adapt to break down a wide range of materials.
• Fungi: Well-known for decomposing plant material, they assist in breaking down pollutants that are resistant to bacterial degradation.
• Algae: Not as efficient as bacteria or fungi but can play a supporting role in biodegradation in aquatic environments.

Understanding the capacity of microorganisms to degrade pollutants helps in devising strategies for bioremediation, which is the use of microorganisms to clean up polluted environments.
This natural process is essential for maintaining ecosystem balance.

Environmental Science

Environmental science explores how natural processes and human activities interact with the environment. Biodegradable pollutants fit within this discipline because they integrate with nature.
The breakdown of these pollutants involves a dynamic interaction between living organisms and the environment. Environmental scientists study:

• Pollutant Sources: Identifying where pollutants come from (e.g., industrial waste, agricultural runoff) helps in managing their impact.
• Ecological Impact: Understanding how pollutants affect ecosystems informs conservation strategies.
• Nutrient Cycling: Biodegradable pollutants often return nutrients to the soil, enhancing plant growth and maintaining ecological balance.

Effective management and policy creation rely on environmental science to ensure human activity does not disrupt the planet's natural processes.
This field aims to balance human needs with sustainable environmental practices.

Waste Management

Waste management involves the collection, treatment, and disposal of waste to minimize its impact on the environment. This practice is especially pertinent when dealing with biodegradable pollutants like domestic waste.
In managing biodegradable waste, several methods are utilized:

• Composting: A natural recycling process where organic materials decompose into nutrient-rich soil, ideal for gardening and agriculture.
• Anaerobic Digestion: This process involves breaking down biodegradable matter in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas, a renewable energy source, and digestate, a material similar to compost.
• Recycling: Some biodegradable materials, like paper, can be recycled and reused, reducing the need for new raw materials.

Implementing effective waste management helps reduce landfill reliance, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes a cleaner, healthier environment. The focus is not just on disposal but on integrating waste into a cycle of use and reuse that supports sustainability.