Civil Services Prep

Prelims 2024 · Environment · Question 77

With reference to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are used in making many consumer products, consider the following statements:

  1. PFAS are found to be widespread in drinking water, food and food packaging material.
  2. PFAS are not easily degraded in the environment.
  3. Persistent exposure to PFAS can lead to bioaccumulation in animal bodies.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

1, 2 and 3

1. Correct. PFAS are widely detected in drinking water, food, and food-contact/packaging materials because they are used in stain-resistant, grease-resistant, and non-stick products.

2. Correct. PFAS are called "forever chemicals" because many of them do not easily degrade in the environment due to very strong carbon-fluorine bonds.

3. Correct. Long-term exposure can cause bioaccumulation in animals and humans; several PFAS persist in blood and tissues over time.

Hence, all three statements are correct.

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