Prelims 2020 · Environment · Question 8
Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution? 1. Automobile exhaust 2. Tobacco smoke 3. Wood burning 4. Using varnished wooden furniture 5. 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.