2008 General Studies, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2008 · General Studies
Question 8: Science and Technology
What is Bisphenol A (BPA)?
aA medical test for detecting cancer
bA test for testing the use of drugs to improve performance by athletes
cA chemical used for the development of food-packaging materials
dA special type of alloy steel
AnswerThe answer is (c).
Bisphenol A is an industrial chemical used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. These go into food and drink packaging such as water bottles, reusable containers and the lining of cans. It is in the news because it can leach into food and acts as an endocrine disruptor, so several countries restrict it in baby bottles. Remember BPA as a plastics and packaging chemical.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Cancer detection uses tests such as biopsy and imaging; BPA is a chemical, not a test.
- (b) Drug testing of athletes is done by anti-doping labs; BPA has nothing to do with sport.
- (c) BPA goes into polycarbonate plastic and epoxy linings used for food packaging.
- (d) It is an organic compound used in plastics, not an alloy of steel.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2008, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.