Question

Most harmful environmental pollutants are

• A. Biodegradable
• B. Corrosive agents
• C. Non biodegradable chemicals
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Non biodegradable chemicals

Substances that are not broken down by biological processes are non-biodegradable. Micro-organisms do not have enzymes to breakdown plastic, glass, detergents etc. Non-biodegradable substances affect the environment. They may enter the food chain and harm the organisms in the higher trophic levels (by bio-magnification), e.g., pesticides like DDT. Non-biodegradable substances like radioactive wastes, lead, mercury etc., affect the health of all living organisms.