Question

Carcinogenic chemicals produced during recycling of plastics and polythene are

• A. formaldehyde
• B. polycyclic aromatic compounds
• C. vinyl chloride
• D. dioxins and furans

Answer 1

The correct option is D dioxins and furans

During recycling, plastics and polythene are heated for melting. Their burning produces some carcinogenic chemicals like dioxins and furans. These byproducts are potent carcinogens i.e. cancer causing. Dioxins are crystalline compounds whereas furans are heterocyclic ring compounds. Furans have an aromatic ring consisting of four carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. These toxic byproducts can cause serious health issues like respiratory problems and also affect the immune system.

So, the correct answer is 'dioxins and furans'.