Prelims 2020 · Environment · Question 8
Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution?
- Automobile exhaust
- Tobacco smoke
- Wood burning
- Using varnished wooden furniture
- Using products made of polyurethane.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Answer
1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
1. Automobile exhaust — Benzene is a known component of vehicular emissions, especially from petrol vehicles. Correct.
2. Tobacco smoke — Cigarette smoke contains benzene and is a major indoor source of exposure. Correct.
3. Wood burning — Burning wood/biomass releases benzene among other volatile organic compounds. Correct.
4. Using varnished wooden furniture — Varnishes, paints, adhesives and related furnishing materials can emit benzene/VOCs, causing indoor exposure. Correct.
5. Using products made of polyurethane — Polyurethane products and associated chemicals can release benzene-related pollutants/VOCs during manufacture/use, and are treated as a source of exposure in this context. Correct.
Hence, all five are reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution.