UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 72
Consider the following activities:
- Spreading finely ground basalt rock on farmlands extensively
- Increasing the alkalinity of oceans by adding lime
- Capturing carbon dioxide released by various industries and pumping it into abandoned subterranean mines in the form of carbonated waters
How many of the above activities are often considered and discussed for carbon capture and sequestration?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option: C (All three)
Explanation: Enhanced rock weathering, ocean alkalinity enhancement and mineralization/storage of captured CO₂ are all discussed as carbon-removal or sequestration approaches.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
1. Correct/True - Basalt dust on cropland reacts with CO₂ during enhanced weathering, binding carbon over time.
2. Correct/True - Adding alkaline minerals such as lime can increase ocean capacity to absorb CO₂, subject to ecological constraints.
3. Correct/True - Captured industrial CO₂ can be dissolved in water and injected into appropriate rock formations for mineral storage.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-it counts 1, but items 1, 2, 3 qualify, giving 3.
B. Incorrect-it counts 2, but items 1, 2, 3 qualify, giving 3.
C. Correct-exactly 3 of the 3 listed items satisfy the condition.
D. Incorrect-it counts 0, but items 1, 2, 3 qualify, giving 3.