Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use?
- They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
- They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.
Smart Elimination
The question asks why there is "concern". For a chemical to be a concern, it usually needs to remain in the environment (resist degradation) and build up in bodies (accumulate). If it broke down easily, there would be no concern. Thus, both statements are likely true.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: CThe correct answer is Option C.
Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs) are chemicals added to furniture, electronics, etc., to reduce flammability.
Statement 1 is Correct: They are Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
Statement 2 is Correct: They represent a health concern because they bioaccumulate in the fatty tissues of living organisms (humans and animals) and biomagnify up the food chain.
Value Addition
- Stockholm Convention: Regulates POPs, including certain BFRs.
- Health Impact: Linked to endocrine disruption, thyroid issues, and neurotoxicity.
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Foundational question based on core concepts.