UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 71
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 ?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D (1, 2 and 3)
Explanation: PFAS are persistent synthetic fluorinated chemicals found in environmental and consumer-product samples; some accumulate in organisms and pose risks from chronic exposure.
Statement / Pair / Item-wise Analysis:
1. Correct/True - PFAS have been detected in water, food and some food-contact materials.
2. Correct/True - Strong carbon–fluorine bonds make many PFAS highly persistent.
3. Correct/True - Several PFAS bioaccumulate in blood/tissues and food chains.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-omits correct item 3 (Several PFAS bioaccumulate in blood/tissues and food chains.).
B. Incorrect-omits correct item 1 (PFAS have been detected in water, food and some food-contact materials.).
C. Incorrect-omits correct item 2 (Strong carbon–fluorine bonds make many PFAS highly persistent.).
D. Correct-includes precisely the true/correct statements or pairs identified above.