QUESTION

GS

Hard

Science & Technology

Prelims 2012

Lead, ingested or inhaled is a health hazard. After the addition of lead to petrol has been banned, what still are the sources of lead poisoning?

  1. Smelting units
  2. Pens and pencils
  3. Paints
  4. Hair oils and cosmetics

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is Correct: Smelting units are a major source of lead poisoning as the process of extracting lead from ores releases lead particles into the air and surrounding soil. Statement 2 is Incorrect: Pencils do not contain the element lead; the "lead" used in pencils is actually a non-toxic mixture of graphite (a form of carbon) and clay. Statement 3 is Correct: Lead-based paints are a significant source of exposure, especially when the paint deteriorates into dust or chips, which can be easily inhaled or ingested. Statement 4 is Incorrect: While some specific traditional eye cosmetics (like surma) may contain lead, standard hair oils and modern commercial cosmetics are not classified as primary or common sources of lead poisoning.

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