Civil Services Prep

Prelims 2014 · Environment · Question 76

Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use? 1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment. 2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer

Both 1 and 2

1. Highly resistant to degradation in the environment — Many brominated flame retardants, especially PBDEs, are persistent organic pollutants; they break down very slowly. Verdict: Correct.

2. Able to accumulate in humans and animals — These chemicals are bioaccumulative and have been detected in human tissues, wildlife, and breast milk. Verdict: Correct.

Since both 1 and 2 are correct, the answer is (c) Both 1 and 2.

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