Due to improper/indiscriminate disposal of old and used computers or their parts, which of the following are released into the environment as e-waste?
- Beryllium
- Cadmium
- Chromium
- Heptachlor
- Mercury
- Lead
- Plutonium
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Smart Elimination
Eliminate 7 (Plutonium), which is commonly used in nuclear reactors along with Uranium, Thorium etc.
Similarly, eliminate 4 (Heptachlor) which is not a normally heard compound. It is actually a chemical/pesticide (Chlor-), unrelated to electronics hardware. This confirms Option B.
Potential Trap
Plutonium is radioactive and associated with nuclear waste, not standard consumer electronics e-waste.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: BThe correct answer is Option B.
Analysis:
- Beryllium: Found in motherboards/connectors. (Yes)
- Cadmium: Found in rechargeable batteries, monitor CRTs. (Yes)
- Chromium: Used in corrosion protection. (Yes)
- Heptachlor: An insecticide. Not an e-waste component. (No)
- Mercury: Found in flat-screen monitors, switches. (Yes)
- Lead: Found in CRTs, soldering. (Yes)
- Plutonium: Radioactive element used in nuclear reactors/bombs. Not in computers. (No)
Correct code: 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.
Value Addition
- E-Waste Rules 2016: Introduced 'Extended Producer Responsibility' (EPR).
- RoHS: Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive (EU standard adopted globally).
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Foundational question based on core concepts.