UPSC Prelims 2024 · GS Paper I

Question 90: Environment and Ecology

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which one of the following is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions ?

aLocomotives using fossil fuels

bShips using fossil fuels

cExtraction of metals from ores

dPower plants using fossil fuels

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the burning of fossil fuels, mainly coal, in power plants is the largest source of sulphur dioxide emissions. Sulphur in the fuel turns to sulphur dioxide when burned. Other sources, such as ships, locomotives and the extraction of metals from ores, add much less. Remember: SO2 comes mainly from coal-fired power plants.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Wrong: locomotives are a minor source.
(b) Wrong: ships using fossil fuels are a smaller source.
(c) Wrong: extraction of metals from ores is a smaller source.
(d) Right: power plants burning fossil fuels are the largest source.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2024, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.