With reference to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that are used in making many consumer products, consider the following statements :
- PFAS are found to be widespread in drinking water, food and food packaging materials.
- PFAS are not easily degraded in the environment.
- Persistent exposure to PFAS can lead to bioaccumulation in animal bodies.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 4 — 1, 2 and 3
All three statements about PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are correct. These synthetic chemicals, often called 'forever chemicals', are widely used in consumer products and are characterized by their environmental persistence and bioaccumulation potential.
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: PFAS are widely detected in drinking water, food items, and food packaging materials due to their extensive use in consumer products and their ability to leach into the environment.
✅ Statement 2 – Correct: PFAS are called 'forever chemicals' because the strong carbon-fluorine bond makes them extremely resistant to environmental degradation processes.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Due to their persistence, PFAS accumulate in the tissues of animals and humans over time, leading to bioaccumulation and potential health risks.
📝 Short Notes: PFAS (Forever Chemicals)
- Full Form: Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
- Nickname: 'Forever Chemicals' due to their extremely persistent nature
- Chemical Structure: Contain strong carbon-fluorine bonds that resist breakdown
- Common Uses: Non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, firefighting foams, food packaging, cosmetics
- Environmental Persistence: Do not degrade naturally; accumulate in soil, water, and air
- Health Concerns: Bioaccumulation leads to potential cancer risk, liver damage, immune system effects, and developmental issues
- Global Concern: Found in blood samples of humans and wildlife worldwide; subject to increasing regulatory scrutiny
Question 3 of 9 Water Pollution
Practice PYQ questions from this topic across all years
"Membrane Bioreactors" are often discussed in the context of:
Triclosan considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most lik...