Pollution: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Environment and Ecology)
3 previous year UPSC Prelims questions on Pollution (Environment and Ecology). Choose an option to see the answer and explanation.
Explanations state facts as of the year each question was asked; words like “recently” refer to that year.
Showing 1–3 of 3 questions
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Pollution
Q1. Which of the following are some important pollutants released by the steel industry in India? 1. Oxides of sulphur 2. Oxide of nitrogen 3. Carbon monoxide 4. Carbon dioxide Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
India is second largest crude steel producer in the world. The steel industry is highly resource and energy-inten-sive, as well as significantly polluting. For instance, India’s current average emission intensity is 2.55 tonnes of CO₂ per tonne of crude steel, while the global average is around 1.95 tonnes. Emissions from the steel sector have decreased by 15% from 2005 to 2022, and the government aims for an additional 10% reduction by 2030. The major environmental impacts of integrated steel mills are from coking and iron-making. Coke production is one of the major pollution sources from steel production. Air emissions such as coke oven gas, naphthalene, ammonium compounds, crude light oil, sulfur and coke dust are released from coke ovens. Steel production has a number of impacts on the environment, including air emissions (CO₂, CO SOx, NOx, PM2.5), wastewater contaminants, hazardous wastes, and solid wastes.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Pollution
Q2. There is some concern regarding the nanoparticles of some chemical elements that are used by the industry in the manufacture of various products. Why? 1. They can accumulate in the environment and contaminate water and soil. 2. They can enter the food chains. 3. They can trigger the production of free radicals. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Nanoparticles are used in the manufacture of scratch proof eyeglasses, crack-resistant paints, anti-graffiti coatings for walls, transparent sunscreens, stain-repellent fabrics, and self-cleaning windows, and ceramic coatings for solar cells. Additionally, stronger, lighter, cleaner, and more intelligent surfaces and systems can be created with nanoparticles.
Statement 1 is correct: A matter particle with dimension ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers is referred to as nanoparticle. Nanoparticles can accumulate in the environment and contaminate water and soil.
Statement 2 is correct: Nanoparticles can also enter the food chain and cross cell membranes.
Statement 3 is correct: Nanoparticles can trigger free radicals and may damage cells in organs like the liver, heart, or blood.
Additional insight:
Health Implications Of Nanoparticles:
Nanoparticles enhance drug delivery and target-specific treatment. However, some nanoparticles may reduce a drug’s efficacy or introduce toxicity risks to non-target orgAns:
Nanoparticles can accumulate in the liver and spleen, potentially altering liver function and triggering inflammatory responses. Certain nanoparticles can trigger immune responses, leading to inflammation or allergic reactions. Some act as allergens or induce antibody formation, affecting overall immune function. Negatively charged nanoparticles can penetrate the skin, increasing concerns over cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. Ingested nanoparticles may accumulate in the gastrointestinal tract, impacting gut health and metabolism. Nanoparticles can induce oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage and potential links to cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. This can weaken the body’s antioxidant defences, causing long-term health risks.
UPSC 2014Environment and Ecology · Pollution
Q3. Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use? 1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment. 2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Explanation
Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs) are mixtures of man-made chemicals that are added to a wide variety of products, including for industrial use, to make them less flammable. They are used commonly in plastics, textiles and electrical/electronic equipment. Statements 1 is correct: Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs)don’t degrade easily in fact they are highly resistant to degradation in the environment. Statements 2 is correct: Some brominated flame retardants were identified as persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic to both humans and the environment and were suspected of causing neurobehavioral effects and endocrine disruption.
Answer key for these questions
Q
UPSC year
Correct answer
1
2014
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
2
2014
(d) 1, 2 and 3
3
2014
(c) Both 1 and 2
Frequently asked questions
How many previous year UPSC questions are there on Pollution?
This page covers 3 previous year UPSC Prelims GS Paper-I questions on Pollution (Environment and Ecology), asked from 2005 to 2025. Each has the correct answer and an explanation.
How should I use previous year UPSC questions for Prelims?
Attempt each question first, then open the answer and read the explanation for every option. Repeat by chapter, and track which statements UPSC reuses across years. Previous year questions show the exam pattern and difficulty level.
Which years are covered for Pollution?
Questions on Pollution (Environment and Ecology) are available for 14 years, from 2005 to 2025. Use the Year filter to practise a single paper.
